Let’s talk about the difference between shrine (神社 = jinja) and temple (お寺 = Tera)!
It looks like the same building for you. But no. It’s different. And it’s not about the building, but about the faith.
We have Shinto (= 神道 or Shintoism) and Buddhism (仏教).
Shinto is based on the way of thinking that there are many gods and goddesses especially in the nature. (If you want to know more, check my Japanese mythology website! You will find a lot of gods and goddesses. )
Here → https://japanesemyth.com/en/welcome/
It is not animism. Because in the Shinto thinking, it is said only special natures have the godship. Not everywhere. But to understand easier, you can think it is like an animism at this point. (Later you need to learn more about this!) This way of thinking came from ancient time in Japan. I believe it’s because the land of Japan is rich of natures.
Shrine (神社 = jinja) is for Shinto. When you see Torii gate, almost always it’s a shrine.
Comparing it, Buddhism was came from China around 6 century. For that, temple (お寺 = Tera) is there. The statue of Buddhism, Buddhism tower and big bell (鐘楼 Shôrô) are temples sign. Temple’s gate is called Sanmon (山門. Mon=門=gate.)
BUT!
Though originally, it’s totally different, while Buddhism came to Japan, Shinto and Buddhism almost joined together. That is why some temples have inner shrine and some shrines have Buddhism’s five-layer tower.
It will cause you question, “how can I recognize?” It’s a little bit difficult by seeing buildings.
When you visit there, please check the name. If you see…
[Shrine case]
“Jinjya” = 神社 = shrine
“gu” = 宮
“jingu” or “daijingu” = 神宮, 大神宮
“sya” or “taisya” = 社, 大社
[Temple case]
“~ Ji” = 寺 = temple
OK, let’s talk about the next step. The difference of manners.When you go to Jinja, please do these actions after purify your hands by Ochozu (お手水) water in front of inner shrine.
[Shrine’s manner]
- two bows
- two claps
- one bow
[Temple’s manner]
- one bow
Even if your faith is not Shintoism or Buddhism, please think this is just a common courtesy. These actions never harm your faith.
I will appreciate for your respect to shrines and temples. Because these places are not sightseeing attractions. It’s for the faith places.
