What is Hatsumode?

It is the end of 2025. The year is almost over.
In Japan, people do Hatsumode when the New Year starts. Hatsumode is the first visit to a shrine or temple of the year.
Here, we will explain the basic way to pray during Hatsumode.

Hatsumode is the first visit of the New Year to a shrine or temple in Japan.
People pray for health, happiness, and good luck.

Most people go from January 1 to January 3, but you can go any time in January.

Important Points

• Hatsumode is a Japanese New Year tradition
• It is not strict religion
• Everyone is welcome, including visitors from other countries

Shrine or Temple?

• Shrine: Japanese tradition (Shinto)
• Temple: Buddhist place

You can visit both. This is normal in Japan.

How to Visit a Shrine

1. Torii Gate

Bow lightly before you walk through the gate.

2. Wash Your Hands

1. Wash your left hand
2. Wash your right hand
3. Rinse your mouth (do not drink)
4. Wash your left hand again

3. Make an Offering

Put a coin in the box.
Any amount is OK.

4. Pray

• Bow two times
• Clap your hands two times
• Make a wish quietly
• Bow one time

How to Pray at a Temple

• Do not clap
• Put your hands together
• Pray quietly

Fun Things to Try

Omikuji (Fortune Paper)

• It tells your luck
• If the result is bad, tie it to a tree or rack

Omamori (Lucky Charm)

• For health, study, work, love
• Change it once a year

Clothes & Manners

• Casual clothes are fine
• Take photos only where allowed
• Be quiet and polite
• Follow the lines

Very Short Guide

Hatsumode is a New Year visit to a shrine or temple in Japan.
Please enjoy it and be respectful.