What is Hatsumode? A simple introduction to prayers and etiquette at shrines

In Japan, at the start of the new year Visiting a shrine for "Hatsumode" Shrines are traditional Japanese places of prayer, and many people visit them to pray for happiness and good health for the year ahead.
Here we will provide a simple introduction to how to enjoy your first visit to a shrine and proper etiquette at the shrine.

[What is Hatsumode?]
Hatsumode is the first visit to a shrine in the new year to greet the gods. People make the following wishes:
・May your family stay healthy
I hope this year goes well with work and studies.
・May you live safely
etc.
In Japan, it is one of the most important annual events.

[The joys of visiting a shrine]
At shrines, you can experience traditional Japanese culture.
・Go through the large torii gate
・Draw an omikuji (fortune-telling slip)
・Buy a charm
・Enjoy the architecture of the shrine
It is a place where you can relax in a quiet and beautiful atmosphere.

[Basic etiquette at shrines (simple explanation)]
Even first-timers will be fine!
Here we will explain the simple and easy to understand method.
① Pass through the torii gate
The red gate at the entrance to the shrine is called a "torii."
It is said to be the entrance to the world of the gods.
➡ Bow slightly before entering.
② Clean your hands and mouth (temizu)
When you enter the shrine, there is a place where water is flowing.
This is meant to cleanse the body and mind.
Here's how:
Wash your left hand again
1. Hold the ladle in your right hand and scoop up some water.
2. Wash your left hand
3. Switch to your left hand and wash your right hand
4. Put some water in your left hand and rinse your mouth (don't drink it)
3. Put in your offering and pray
The basics of praying before God "Two bows, two claps, one bow" is.
1. Put in your offering
2. Bow deeply twice
3. Clap your hands twice (clap, clap)
4. Close your eyes and make a wish
5. One final bow
*One or two requests are OK!

【What kind of wish would you like to make?】
Japanese people make such wishes.
·health
-Success in studies or work
Travel safety
·love affair
・Family happiness
At a shrine, it's okay to ask for anything.

[Fortune slips are also popular!]
The "omikuji" you can draw at a shrine is a piece of paper with your "fortune" written on it.
What is written
・Daikichi (very good luck)
・Medium luck, good luck (good fortune)
・Unlucky (Caution required)
If you get a bad result, it is said that if you tie it to a tree branch and go home, you will leave your bad luck behind.

[Hatsumode is a chance to enjoy Japanese culture!]
First visit to a shrine is not just about making a wish.
・Japanese history
・Shinto culture
・The way Japanese people think
・Quiet and sacred atmosphere
You can feel things like this.

[Learn Japanese phrases! ~First visit to a shrine~]
◎Happy New Year.
◎ Today I'm going to visit the shrine for the first time in the new year.
◎I bought a lucky charm.
◎ I made a request to God.
◎ I hope this will be a good year.

It is also highly recommended for those celebrating the New Year in Japan for the first time.
Come experience Japanese culture and start the new year in a good mood!