Torii gate is not only a gateway to the shrine or a symbolic structure, but also represents the boundary between the sacred area inside the shrine (the Shinto sanctuary) and the secular area outside where people live. In addition, torii gates are said to serve as a “boundary” to prevent unclean things from entering the shrine.
There are many variations of torii gates in terms of shape and materials.
There are two main types of torii gates.
One (Shinmei-style) is a simple, rectilinear type.
The Ise Jingu Shrine is a famous example of this type.
The other is the Myojin style, in which the topmost horizontal tree has two warped ends.
Nanasha Shrine, where you can experience Japanese culture, is also of this type.
There are no strict rules on how to pray at the shrine.
While there are no strict rules for etiquette when visiting a shrine, it is customary to bow once in front of the Torii gate before passing through.
When completing the visit, it is also recommended to turn towards the main shrine, bow, and show gratitude.
However, it is not a rule that you must do so, and the best thing to do is to be thankful and visit the shrine with all your heart and soul.
On a side note, Japan has a culture of bowing, where the angle of the bow conveys different meanings:
- Eshaku: Bowing at a 15-degree angle. Used for simple greetings.
- Keirei: Bowing at a 30-degree angle. Used for customers or superiors.
- Saikeirei: Bowing at a 45-degree angle. Used to express gratitude or apologize.
In addition to visiting shrines, there are many other occasions to bow in daily life.
When greeting someone casually, when apologizing, and of course when you are in front of someone.
Many Japanese people tend to bow over the phone, even when talking to someone on the phone.