I've lived in Japan for quite some time now, but when I first came here, I didn't know there was a proper way to shrine.

In this video, I'm gonna show you the do's and don'ts on how to shrine in Japan.

Don't worry; it's not too difficult, and if you get it all right, Japanese people will love you for it.

Let's get started.

Before entering the main shrine area, you've gotta cleanse your body at the Temizu-ya, also known as a water pavilion.

Scoop water in a ladle with your right hand, pour water over your left hand, and then switch hands and wash your right hand.

Now, take some water in your left hand and rinse your mouth, but don't drink it.

Finally, rinse the ladle with the remaining water, like so.

No need to wash your head; we're not taking showers here.

Don't put your mouth directly on the ladle; that's gross.

And no hand scooping; that's also gross.

Don't take the water home with you.

Don't play with the water.

And you don't have to clean that much.

Now, you're ready to walk towards the main shrine area.

Use only the sidewalk ways like this, and whatever you do, don't walk in the center.

This is reserved for the gods; don't piss them off.

Passing Through the Gate

Bow once to say hello to the God.

No, "Karate Kid" bows or curtsies or special dance moves.

Also, the Shrine is like God's house.

It's super rude to enter in from the side or the back door.

At the altar, you've got to throw some coins into the saisen box, also known as offering box.

Five yen in Japanese sounds like good fortune, so include five yen if possible, but any amount is fine.

Just throw it in quietly and keep it simple; stick to money and no three-pointers.

To pray, bow twice, clap twice, and then pray.

Then bow one more time.

The number of bows and claps may differ from shrine to shrine; this is a basic pattern.

No turns; stick to claps.

No need to go overboard with this and don't wish too much.

You're supposed to be thanking God more than you're supposed to be wishing for your own stuff.

Finally, when exiting a shrine, you need to bow one last time to thank God for the hospitality.

Don't be rude walking away without saying goodbye, and don't bow facing backwards⏤God doesn't want to see your butt.

There are several other rules to note.

No running, no drinking, no climbing statues, even for that perfect selfie.

Also, before you go to the shrine, make sure you have the proper attire.

They don't have stick rules nowadays, but covering shoulders and wearing clean shoes is always good.

No hats or anything else ridiculous.

Manners for temples and shrines are a bit different, but as long as you remember these basics, you won't embarrass yourself.

And most of all, your Japanese friends will love you.

If you liked this video and want to see more tips about Japan, feel free to subscribe to my channel.

See you guys in the next video!