One of the most popular things to do when visiting Japan is to visit all the beautiful Japanese Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. However there are often many customs and practices that Japanese people do that may seem foreign to those unfamiliar with it. Like when you visit any place of worship or spiritual significance, it is a given that you behave respectfully. But other than that, there are some other things that are customary in these temples and shrines.  Here are just some things that are good to be aware of when visiting a temple or shrine in Japan.

Shrines

Before entering a shrine, there is a Torii Gate signifing entrance into a holy place. It is customary and respectful to bow before going through the Torii Gate, and you should always enter off-center, as the center pathway is for the deity to pass. Next, in some shrines there are often purification fountains found near the entrance. There are usually ladles provided so that you can rinse your hands off, and traditionally you would also ladle some water into your hands and rinse your mouth. Although some people skip this step, it is a customary tradition that has been done for years by many Japanese people and is recommended to do as a show of respect.

Another thing you will observe are people praying and dropping coins into a coin box. Traditionally, people bow to show their respects, make a coin offering, and then ring the bell that is usually above the offering box a couple of times. After, you bow twice and clap your hands, people usually pray, give thanks, or wish for something before exiting with another deep bow. It is considered rude to walk in front of someone else praying so please go around or wait until they are done. 

Temples

For visiting temples, there are many similarities, but a few differences.

 Firstly, when entering a temple, there is often a raised threshold. It is considered a sign of disrespect to step on it, you should always step over it. Also, instead of a water-based purification fountain, there is usually incense available to burn as a form of purification. Another person's incense should never be used to light your own as that signifies you taking on their sins. Also the match that is used to light the incense should be fanned out with your hand, not blown out. When you get to the offering box, many of the steps are the same, however, unlike the Shinto shrines, you do not clap before you pray.

Some other important things to note regarding temple and shrine etiquette is as follows. 

-Before entering a temple or a shrine, it is also usually customary to remove your shoes and put on the provided slippers.

-Often times taking photos within the infrastructure is forbidden so be aware of the rules and signs before snapping photos.

At these shrines, you can also purchase wooden boards where you write your wishes on them and hang them up in hopes that they come true. You can also purchase omamoris at both temples and shrines that are used to protect you or bring you good luck or fortune.  

Whenever you're in doubt about something, it is best to observe what others do to get a guideline of expected behavior. The aforementioned guidelines will hopefully make it easier to figure out what to do and the customary procedures that are usually carried out, ensuring you act as respectfully as possible.