Question
I’m traveling to Kyoto and visiting temples and shrines. Should I say something specific when praying at these places? What is the proper way to pray at a Japanese shrine in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
神社（じんじゃ）での正（ただ）しいお参（まい）り方法（ほうほう）は、「二礼（にれい）、二拍手（にはくしゅ）、一礼（いちれい）」です。
Jinja de no tadashii omairi hoohoo wa, “nirei, nihakushu, ichirei” desu.
The correct way to pray at a shrine is “two bows, two claps, one bow.”
In Japan, visiting a shrine involves a traditional method of prayer. Upon reaching the main building or hall, follow this procedure to show respect and make your prayer:
1. Throw a coin into the offering box.
2. Bow twice deeply (“Nirei”).
3. Clap your hands twice (“Nihakushu”).
4. Make your wish or prayer silently.
5. Bow once again deeply to conclude the prayer (“Ichirei”).
This pattern, “nirei, nihakushu, ichirei,” is a fundamental aspect of shrine etiquette. While at temples, the process usually involves silent prayer without clapping. When unsure, observe or ask shrine staff, “正（ただ）しいお参（まい）り方法（ほうほう）は何（なん）ですか？” (Tadashii omairi hoohoo wa nan desuka?) which means “What is the correct way to pray?” Enjoy your serene experience at these spiritual places in Kyoto!
