Introduction
Are you planning to visit Japan? One of the best things to do there is to visit a shrine. These places are quiet and beautiful, showing you a part of Japan’s heart and history. In this blog, we’ll tell you about some of the shrines that tourists love the most. We’ll also show you how to get there and give you some easy Japanese phrases to use. We’ve made everything simple to understand, especially for those who are just starting to learn Japanese.
Discovering Japan’s Popular Shrines
When you visit Japan, don’t miss the chance to see its beautiful shrines. Here are a few top picks that are famous among tourists and locals alike:
1st Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto
Why Visit: Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of red torii gates. These gates line paths that wind through the mountains, creating a breathtaking view.
How to Get There: To get to Fushimi Inari Taisha, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station. It’s just a two-minute walk from there.
Simple Japanese Phrase: When you see the beautiful gates, you might want to say, “Sugoi!” (すごい！) which means “This is amazing!”
2nd Meiji Shrine, Tokyo
Why Visit: Located in the heart of Tokyo, near Harajuku Station, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. It’s surrounded by a forest that offers a peaceful escape from the city.
How to Get There: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The shrine is a short walk from the station.
Simple Japanese Phrase: You can greet others with “Konnichiwa” (こんにちは), which means “Good afternoon.” It’s a nice way to show respect and friendliness.
3rd Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
Why Visit: Itsukushima Shrine is known for its “floating” torii gate, which appears to stand in the water during high tide. It’s a truly unique sight.
How to Get There: Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station. Then, catch a ferry to Miyajima Island where the shrine is located.
Simple Japanese Phrase: When you want to take a photo, you might ask, “Shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?” (しゃしんをとってもいいですか？) which means “May I take a picture?”
Tips for Visiting Shrines in Japan
- Cleanse at the entrance: Use the water pavilion to wash your hands and mouth before entering, as a sign of purification.
- Be quiet: Keep your voice down to maintain the tranquil atmosphere.
Conclusion
Visiting shrines in Japan is a wonderful way to experience the culture and find some peace during your travels. With the directions and phrases we shared, you’re all set for a memorable visit. Remember these tips and enjoy your journey into the spiritual side of Japan. Safe travels!
Link to Source
According to a ranking by nippon.com, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Meiji Shrine, and Dazaifu Tenmangu are among the top visited shrines in Japan. Fushimi Inari Taisha is celebrated for its iconic rows of vermilion torii gates, Meiji Shrine is a beloved escape nestled in a forest in Tokyo, and Dazaifu Tenmangu is famed for its association with learning and academia. These shrines attract millions of visitors annually due to their cultural significance and historical importance. For more detailed information, see the article on nippon.com nippon.com/japan-data.
