Shrines are sacred places for the Japanese people and are an integral part of their culture.
Many foreigners consider visiting shrines when they are in Japan. However, if you are new to Japan, it can be difficult to know the proper etiquette at shrines. Listed below are guidelines for those visiting shrines. The instructions are not mandatory, but Japanese people will be impressed if you follow them.

1. Bow before passing through the torii gate

Once you pass through the torii gate, you are entering a sacred place, so you should bow before entering and before exiting the gate to show your respect to the gods that belong to this place.

2. Walking on the edge

The center of the shrine's approach is called the "seichu" (meaning "the center"), where only the gods walk, so you should avoid walking there and walk on the edge. It is also said that it is best to walk on the left side.

3. Cleanse your mouth and hands

There is a classically decorated water area where you can not only wash your hands but also cleanse your entire body.
(1) Use your right hand to scoop up water and wash your left hand.
(2) Turn your hands around and wash your right hand.

(Reference: http://odekakerepo.tea-nifty.com/blog/2007/03/post_e3d8.html)

(3) Switch the ladle back to your right hand and pour some water into your left hand to rinse your mouth. Do not touch the ladle to your mouth.
(4) Then, wash your left hand with the remaining water, and hold the ladle vertically to rinse the handle.
(5) Put the ladle back in place.

4. Throw a coin into the offering box

If you have one, it's best to throw a 5 yen coin. It's said that if you throw a 5 yen coin, your wish will come true. Then ring the bell slowly.

5. Pray

Bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, say a prayer, and then bow deeply again.
When clapping, it is best to tilt your hands slightly so that the sound will be loud enough to reach the gods.

Please enjoy visiting this beautiful shrine.

Mirza
India

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This article has been partially re-edited by KARUTA from an article published on Guidable.