Nara City Tourism Association

Many of Nara's Shinto shrines and temples were established in the 8th century when Nara was the state capital. Six of them (Todaiji Temple, Kohfukuji Temple, Kasugataish Shrine, etc.) were registered with Unesco World Heritage Sites in 1998. Many buildings and Buddhist statues are designated national treasures or important cultural properties. Many are also said to bestow specific blessings, such as matchmaking and warding off misfortune. This makes Nara the perfect place to immerse yourself in history and culture.

Shinto shrines are facilities of the Shinto faith, an ancient polytheistic religion that worships nature, land, spirits, and all beings as gods. Shrines have a torii (gate) at the entrance of a sando (approach) that leads to the honden (main hall), which is further back. A purification fountain is usually placed along this route.

On the other hand, temples are facilities of Buddhism where monks study the doctrines and undergo ascetic training. Temples generally have a sanmon (main gate) at the entrance and a hondo or kondo (main hall) where Buddhist statues are enshrined. Some temples also have a toh (pagoda), which symbolizes the grave marker of Buddha, the founder of the faith.

Therefore, the faith, architecture, and layout help you distinguish shrines and temples.

First, please remember that shrines and temples are religious places, not sightseeing spots. Proper etiquette is essential. For example, leaving trash is inconsiderate, so take your trash when you leave. 

Also, when you take photographs, please make sure you are not in an area where photography is prohibited and avoid including other people in your photograph. When visiting shrines or temples, it is important to follow each facility's prescribed route and rules. Please be considerate and do not disturb other worshippers, making it a pleasant experience for everyone.

There is no strict rule about how to worship in Shinto shrines, but observing some basic etiquette helps ensure a pleasant visit. Relax and express your gratitude.

[1. Bow once upon entering the grounds]

The torii (gate) represents a sacred boundary. The domain of the gods is further inside. When passing through the gate, stand on either its left or right side, not the middle, and bow once. The middle is said to be the path for the gods, so try not to walk there.

[2. Purify your mind and body at　chozusha]

Chozusha (purification fountain) is near the entrance. Here, you can symbolically purify your mind and body before visiting and praying. In this　ritual, you scoop up water with a long-handled water scoop called a hishaku (ladle). First, clean your left and right hands, and rinse your mouth lightly with your left hand (not directly from the ladle). Finally, wash your left hand once more.

[3. How to worship]

The basics are summarized as "Bow twice, clap twice, and one bow before leaving". By this ritual, you can convey your gratitude to the gods.

Worship practice at temples varies depending on the sect. The rituals introduced here are general practices.

[1. Bow once in front of the main gate]

At the sanmon (main gate), put your palms together in front of your chest (gassho) and take a bow. Gassho means that you are becoming one with the Buddha. Avoid stepping on the entrance threshold at the bottom of the gate.

[2. Wash your hands at chozusha]

When you enter the grounds, purify yourself by washing your hands and lightly rinsing your mouth at the chozusha (purification fountain). This is the same ritual as at a Shinto shrine.

[3. Worship]

When you arrive at the main hall (hondo or kondo), quietly put your osaisen (monetary offering) to express gratitude into the offering box. Even a tiny amount is meaningful. Face the Buddhist statue, stand up straight, and bow once with your hands put together as gassho style. It is important to be mindful that you are showing your face to the Buddha.

There may also be a corner where incense is lit, called a shokodai. Also a place for offering prayers. Place a small amount in a dedicated incense burner and light the incense. The number of times you do depends, but it is acceptable to do it just once."

The City of Nara is an ancient city with a history of about 1,300 years and Japan's leading tourist destination with many Shinto shrines, temples, historical buildings, and cultural properties.

Nara City is also the capital of the Nara Prefecture, which is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: "Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area," "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," and "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." 

The six shrines and temples featured below are particularly noteworthy places registered under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara" in 1998. They offer a profound experience of Japanese history and culture.

Early mornings are a time when you can avoid the daytime crowds and enjoy a quiet and pleasant visit. The gohonsha (main hall) of Kasugataisha Shrine is open from 6:30 a.m. from March to October and from 7:00 a.m. at other times of the year. Jurin-in Temple also holds morning training (gongyo) daily, and monks' daily work experiences (samu) calm participants' minds.　Combine this, with an early morning walk in Nara Park or the Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest, and this will calm your mind and body perfectly.

Historical Shinto shrine and temple events, which are well-known nationwide, are held in Nara throughout the year and are deeply rooted in the local community's life. 

Seals after worshipping, the experience of sutra　copying, and morning training at temples are popular activities among tourists. Other must-sees include the public unveiling Buddhist statues that are not normally shown. We hope you relax your mind and body and spend precious moments here in Nara, the city of prayer and healing.