Basic Etiquette for Shrine Visits

1. Before entering the torii gate at the shrine’s entry, remove hats and sunglasses, and set phones to silent mode.

2. Purify your body and mind at the temizuya (water basin)

1. First, take the ladle in your right hand, scoop some water, and rinse your left hand.
2. Switch the ladle to your left hand, scoop some water, and rinse your right hand.
3. Take the ladle into your right hand again and rinse your mouth with the water in your left hand.
4. Cleanse your left hand again.
5. With its handle pointing upwards, rinse the ladle with the remaining water, and return it to its original position.

3. Pay your respects at the shrine

1. Give a coin as an offering, and ring the bell, if there is one.
2. Bow deeply twice (90 degrees is usual).
3. Clap your hands twice.
4. Make your prayer.
5. Bow once.

*This procedure may vary depending on the shrine.

Kanda Myojin (Kanda Shrine)

A shrine with a 1,300-year history — Bustling year-round with festivals and worshipers

Kanda Myojin [Kanda Shrine] dates back some 1,300 years. It had especially devoted adherents among samurai, particularly the shogun of the Tokugawa period (1603–1867), but it was popular among commoners, too. Its festival, every other May, is known as one of Japan's three major festivals. A facility on the shrine grounds, EDOCCO, offers rakugo comedy and Japanese dance performances, along with other cultural experiences.

Tokyo Daijingu

Tokyo Daijingu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirits of the most important deities such as Amaterasu-Ohmikami whom the Japanese people have worshipped since the establishment of the country. It is one of the five major shrines in Tokyo: Meiji Jingu, Yasukuni Jinja, Hie Jinja, Ohkunitama Jinja and Tokyo Daijingu.