Visiting a Shrine

When visiting a shrine, it is customary to purify your hands and mouth after passing under the torii (sacred gate). Proceed to the temizuya (a water basin used for purification) and clean your hands and mouth before approaching the main sanctuary.

Temizu: How to purify your hands and mouth

	1. Pick up the dipper with your right hand and fill it with water from the basin. Pour the water over your left hand to purify it. Be careful not to pour the water back into the basin.
	2. This time, using your left hand, refill the dipper with water from the basin. Pour the water over your right hand.
	3. Once again, hold the dipper with your right hand an refill it with water. Cup your left hand, pour the water into it, and then rinse your mouth.(Please be careful not to touch the dipper with your mouth.)
	4. Finally, lift the dipper up towards you so that the water runs down the handle and return the dipper to its original spot.

Praying Etiquette to Kami

	1. Bow deeply twice.
	2. Clap your hands twice.
	3. Keep your hands together while you pray.
	4. When you are finished praying, bow deeply once more.