What’s the etiquette for visiting temples in Japan?

Visiting or staying at a Buddhist temple in Japan? There are key differences from visiting a shrine.

Remove your hat and shoes

Before entering a temple in Japan, remove your hat and shoes. There are designated areas to leave your shoes – it’s very rare for them to be stolen in Japan – and you can carry your headgear if preferred.

Pick the right entrance

Buddhist temple sanmon gates look more like buildings than torii gates. They have a roof, and often house statues of protective deities. Like entering a shrine, you should walk to the sides and bow before you enter.

Cleanse your hands and mouth

You do this in the same way as you would at a shrine, see above for the step-by-step instructions.

Burning incense

Incense is unique to Buddhist temples rather than Shinto shrines, so it’s a great experience to try.

• Buy a bundle of incense sticks, usually provided within or near the temple
• Light them yourself – avoid lighting them from other people’s burning sticks
• Let them burn a few seconds, then wave your hand to extinguish (don’t blow)
• Carefully place your sticks and enjoy, you can also fan smoke towards you

No clapping, less bowing

The prayer ritual for Buddhism in Japan differs from Shinto, but some elements are similar.

• Quietly toss a coin into the offering box – 5 yen is considered “good fate”
• If there’s a bell or gong, ring it a couple of times before you start praying
• Bow deeply, but don’t clap your hands after – hold them together in prayer
• Some sects of Buddhism chant or hold beads while praying (watch or ask)
• After prayer, bow to thank Buddha, then once more to the sanmon gate

While inside a Buddhist temple, it goes without saying you should behave politely to any monks. Don’t try to touch or grab them for a selfie. Some temples allow you to stay with them, or offer meditation classes.

If you’re on a guided trip around Japan, or with friends, ask for their temple and shrine etiquette tips too.