Japanese Culture: What’s the Difference Between a Shrine and a Temple? Have you ever visited a shrine or temple in Japan? They might look similar, but they actually come from two different religious traditions! Today, let’s explore an interesting part of Japanese culture! 1. 神社（じんじゃ）– Shinto Shrine Shrines are associated with Shinto (神道), Japan’s indigenous religious tradition. In Shinto, people believe in kami (神), which can be associated with nature, ancestors, and other sacred beings. There is a Japanese expression, 八百万の神（やおよろずのかみ）, meaning “countless gods.” You can often recognize a shrine by its 鳥居（とりい）, a traditional gate marking the entrance to a sacred space. How to pray at a shrine: 1. Bow twice. 2. Clap twice. 3. Pray silently. 4. Bow once more. This is called 二礼二拍手一礼（にれい にはくしゅ いちれい）, a common way of praying at many shrines. 2. お寺（おてら）– Buddhist Temple Temples are associated with Buddhism (仏教 / ぶっきょう), which was introduced to Japan around the 6th century. At temples, you may see Buddha statues, Buddhist monks, and traditional Buddhist architecture. How to pray at a temple: Usually, you put your hands together quietly without clapping. This gesture is called 合掌（がっしょう）. 3. An Interesting Fact About Japanese Culture! Many Japanese people participate in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. For example: New Year’s Day: Visiting a shrine or temple for 初詣（はつもうで） Childhood celebrations: Visiting a shrine for 七五三（しちごさん） Funerals: Often held according to Buddhist traditions Historically, Shinto and Buddhism have influenced each other for centuries!