Kitakyushu Trip Overview
Visiting shrines and temples is one of the most popular tourist activities in Japan. Simply strolling around the serene grounds and taking pictures of the age-old structures already makes for a great experience, but if you are willing to take a little more time and understand the manners and customs long observed by the Japanese, your shrine visits will be even more enjoyable!
During this 2.5-hour session, not only will you be able to get a tour of a time-honored shrine with an informative commentary by the chief priest, you get to enjoy fun traditions like drawing “omikuji” fortunes and writing your wishes on “ema” tablets.
You can also create your own “goshuincho”, a seal book that will make your shrine/temple hopping even more memorable one. If you want a comprehensive shrine visiting experience in Kyushu, look no further!
Additional Info
Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes
Starts: Kitakyushu, Japan
Trip Category: Walking & Biking Tours >> Walking Tours
Explore Kitakyushu Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
Visiting shrines and temples is one of the most popular tourist activities in Japan. Simply strolling around the serene grounds and taking pictures of the age-old structures already makes for a great experience, but if you are willing to take a little more time and understand the manners and customs long observed by the Japanese, your shrine visits will be even more enjoyable!
During this 2.5-hour session, not only will you be able to get a tour of a time-honored shrine with an informative commentary by the chief priest, you get to enjoy fun traditions like drawing “omikuji” fortunes and writing your wishes on “ema” tablets.
You can also create your own “goshuincho”, a seal book that will make your shrine/temple hopping even more memorable one. If you want a comprehensive shrine visiting experience in Kyushu, look no further!
The first thing you do when you arrive at the historic shrine, founded more than 1000 years ago, is clean your hands with water to purify your soul, then offer a prayer at the main building. You will learn the proper way of doing them as well as the differences in manners between Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples from the chief priest.
Then, you’ll go inside to create your own “goshuincho”, a book to collect unique seals (goshuin) offered at shrines and temples across the country as proof of your visit. In other words, it’s a magical item that will make your shrine/temple hopping extra fun and rewarding.
While waiting for the goshuin to dry, take a tour around the main building as the priest gives you an introduction to the shrine’s history, as well as tips on how best to enjoy your shrine visits. You can also experience drawing “omikuji” fortunes, and writing your wishes on “ema,” a votive tablet.
Before leaving the shrine, don’t forget to take with you the “goshuin map” that shows nearby shrines/temples, which will surely come in handy during your trip.
*Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
*Please refrain from showing too much skin in order to respect the sanctity of the shrine.
*If you want to cover your goshuincho with particular paper or cloth, feel free to bring it.
*Please make sure to arrive on time.
