Visiting shrines and temples is a must for any trip to Japan. No matter how often you have visited, there is always a new sacred site to discover. While many travelers are aware of basic shrine etiquette, fewer know about the tradition of Goshuin (御朱印).
What is a Goshuin?
Originally, Goshuin were given to pilgrims as a “receipt” for dedicating a hand-copied sutra (holy scripture) to a temple. Over time, this evolved into a beautiful tradition available to all visitors for a small donation.
Each Goshuin is a unique work of art, featuring intense black calligraphy over distinct red vermillion seals. Beyond being “classy” souvenirs, they serve as a sacred record of your spiritual journey through Japan.
Goshuin-cho (御朱印帳)
This book is called a Goshuin-cho (御朱印帳) and you are expected to get your Goshuin written in it.
Although it looks like a regular notebook, it is actually one piece of paper like a scroll.
A standard book now typically costs between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500. Some temples offer designer covers made of wood or silk, which can cost up to ¥3,500.
Do not use a regular notebook or scrap paper. Monks and priests may politely refuse to write in anything other than an official Goshuin-cho, as the stamp is considered a religious blessing.
Meaning behind what is written
Since most of the writing is Kanji, you might not understand what it says, but we have provided the meaning of each element.
① 奉拝 = Houhai meaning “To worship” ② 山号 = Sangou means an honorific mountain name associated with the temple or shrine. It is a term used to refer to the name of the temple. Because Japan is a mountainous country, some temples or shrines are prefixed with the name of the mountain they are located on. See left image, top right. ③ Black calligraphy: The name of the temple or shrine ④ Oshi-in: A red stamp or seal that provides the name of the shrine or temple. Sometimes, you also see sacred phrases in Siddham (Bonji). ⑤ Usually provides your purpose to pray. In this case on the left, it is a prayer or blessing to raise a child well. ⑥ Day you visited the temple or shrine and received it.
Where to get a Goshuin?
Each temple usually has an area where they sell amulets and other holy charms, you can buy your Goshuin-cho here too.
You will most likely see the sign ” 御 朱 印 受 付 “.
Things to remember
- The standard fee has shifted. While some small shrines still charge ¥300, the standard donation in 2026 is ¥500. Special “Kirie” (paper-cut) or seasonal limited editions can cost ¥1,000 or more.
- Always try to provide exact change. It is considered respectful to place your coins on the small tray provided rather than handing them directly to the priest.
- This is critical. You should always visit the main hall to pray before requesting your Goshuin. It is proof of your worship, not just a collector’s item.
- Stand patiently while the priest writes. It is considered rude to film or take photos of the calligraphy process without asking for explicit permission first.
