Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Next, proceed to the
haiden
(worshippers' hall), which stands before the main hall of
the shrine. Here, you will find an offering box over which a bell hangs with a long rope at-
tached. Visitors toss a coin into the box, then grab and shake the rope to 'wake the gods',
bow twice, clap loudly twice, bow again twice (once deeply, once lightly) and then step
back and to the side.
Amulets are popular at shrines.
O-mamori
(special talismans) are purchased to ensure
good luck or ward off evil.
O-mikuji
(fortunes) are chosen by drawing a numbered rod
from a box and taking the corresponding fortune slip.
NEED TO KNOW
Shrine Admission Fees
You can enter most shrines for free. Some shrines have treasure houses or other special buildings that require
an admission fee. This will usually be around ¥400.
Temple Admission Fees
You can enter the grounds of many temples for free, especially larger ones. Others charge an admission fee,
averaging around ¥400. Many temples have gardens or special halls that require an admission charge, which
also averages around ¥400.
Temple & Shrine Opening Hours
You can enter many shrines 24 hours a day. The same goes for some larger temples. Otherwise, most temples
are open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.
Temples & Shrines by Neighbourhood
here: Nishi Hongan-ji and Higashi Hongan-ji.
here.
