Taking It Home

A visit to a jinja often involves the acquisition of an amulet or talisman that maintains the presence and power of the kami. These items are sacred and come in many forms. A small offering is required and most jinja specify the appropriate amount. Some can be left at the jinja or taken home.

Ofuda are flat pieces of wood or Japanese paper (washi) bearing the name of the enshrined kami or jinja. They are believed to possess the divine power of the kami and are commonly placed on the household altar (kamidana) in the home to bring prosperity and protect the family from bad fortune. They are generally renewed yearly at the jinja.

Omamori are small amulets believed to hold the spirit of the kami. They are protective amulets that offer good fortune and for ward off danger. Omamori are considered personal and are typically chosen to align with a specific request of the kami. They are often carried in or attached to backpacks and handbags. These amulets come in various forms, most commonly as colourful embroidered pouches with the name of the jinja and the type of request written on them. You should not open the pouches or look inside. Omamori make meaningful gifts for friends and family.

Omikuji are sealed paper fortunes, drawn at jinja for a small sum. When opened, people often fold and tie them to a string on the jinja grounds, particularly if the fortune is bad.

Ema are small wooden plaques with painted images and a space to write one’s personal wishes to the kami. Although ema are often brought home as souvenirs it is customary to leave them at the jinja. They can be hung at designated areas in the jinja precinct.

Goshuin are distinctive red stamps written in Japanese, usually accompanied by the jinja’s name and the date written by hand in black ink. Each jinja has a unique seal, and the writing varies, leading many people in Japan to collect them in special books called “goshuincho.” A goshuin serves as a record of your visit to the jinja, and therefore, it is not suitable as a gift.