Engaging with Religious Sites

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If you find yourself in Japan, there are countless fantastic opportunities to gain insight into the country's religious identity and practices by visiting local religious sites. Whether it be a grand Buddhist temple or a small Shinto shrine outside of a convenience store, any opportunity to see and experience the religious culture of Japan is a special one. However, what is critical to remember is that these are not tourist attractions, but actively used places of reverence and worship. Gathered from my visits so far to Japanese religious sites, I want to share some of what I have learned and gathered from my observations.

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1.) Mind the dress code

        When planning a trip that includes a shrine or temple visit, it's important to consider the outfit you'll be wearing. Not only in terms of comfort and physical activity, but also whether or not your clothing is appropriate for the setting. There is usually no strict dress code for these religious sites, but outward appearance can be an indicator of one's values and how they feel about their surroundings. Japanese fashion is already quite modest in comparison to other cultures, and this can be magnified at places of worship. Choose clothing that will be comfy and breathable (most sites will not have air conditioning or other forms of air circulation), and consider an outfit that airs on the side of modesty. Make note to have shoes that can be slipped on and off, as well as socks in case you choose to enter any buildings. You'll most likely be instructed to remove your shoes, as most indoor spaces are laid with tatami flooring which can easily be dirtied or damaged by shoes. By being intentional about your appearance, you'll demonstrate an unspoken respect for your surroundings, and show your appreciation to other patrons and caretakers of the religious sites you visit.

No shoes on the tatami!

2.) Follow any signage given

This one is a rule that most will already be very familiar with! Just as in photography is banned in many museum exhibitions and art galleries, you will also most likely find certain areas of temples and shrines do not allow photography whatsoever. Not only can flash photography cause damage to delicate and historical artifacts and distract worshippers; it can also display a show of disrespect. In the alter rooms of Buddhist and Shinto buildings, photography is almost never allowed, especially when the space is in use for services or prayer. Trying to get photos and videos takes away from the sacrality of these spaces, and can be viewed as a demeaning practice. Instead, consider taking time to sit or kneel near the back of the alter room, and take in the details around you. Temples and shrines are the result of thousands of hours of hard work and passion, and the work shows. Enjoy what you see and sense around you, and allow your heart to hold what a camera never could. :)

Overall, signs exist for a reason. Don't be the reason a sign has to exist.

3.) Act with intention

Temples and shrines, on the average day, are quiet and atmospheric places. They have a degree of separation from the outside world, and almost seem to make time slow down and the mind calm down. Take in your surroundings, and react to them accordingly. Sometimes, you find yourself doing this unintentionally. You speak in quiet tones even outside in the courtyard. You measure your steps and keep your posture a bit straighter than normal. The tiniest detail to the largest element of the temple or shrine feel equally important. Even the tiny shinto shrines outside of convenience stores hold an air of stoicism, and can be treated the same amount of reverence when visited.

Take a bit of time to slow down your body and mind, and appreciate a break from the hustle and bustle that takes over the rest of the world.

View of the Higashi Hongan-ji Temple main courtyard

4.)Show your respect/appreciation

It can be difficult to visit these sites if you don't hold any connection with the religion that is practiced within a religious site. But no matter what, a little bit of research can go a long way in making the most of your visit! As a Christian visiting these sites, I still strive to honor the rituals and guidelines that are put in place, and I encourage others to do so as well. 

Often times, there are steps to visiting a temple or shrine. Just as an individual prepares themselves to receive a sacrament in Christianity or to pray in Islam, the same physical and spiritual preparation is needed in these sites. Many spaces include a Temizuya or chozuya, where the hands and mouth are cleansed with water. Other parts of your visit may include lighting incense or giving a small monetary offering, which also include rituals. Even leaving the religious site has specific rules. For example, it is considered rude to offer your back to a statue or image of a Buddha. Instead, walk backwards out of the space, offering a bow before entirely leaving.

Main path of the Gotenyama Shinto shrine, and a typical Temizuya

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These rules and rituals can be seen as confusing or difficult to remember, but serve to respect others and make the most of the time you spend in these special places. If you want to learn more about how to have a successful and impactful visit to a shrine or temple, check out the sources below!

FURTHER READING:

General Etiquette at Shrines and Temples

Visiting a Buddhist Temple

Visiting a Japanese Shinto Shrine