Formal — to staff
Shrine · Temple
お参りの作法で、柏手は何回でしょうか？ — For the prayer ritual, how many claps should I do? (Shrine · Temple, Formal — to staff, JLPT N3)
You
お参りの作法で、柏手は何回でしょうか？
おまいりのさほうで、かしわではなんかいでしょうか？
For the prayer ritual, how many claps should I do?
Romaji: O-mairi no sahou de, kashiwade wa nankai deshou ka? / Reply Romaji: Kihon wa nihai nihakushu ippai desu.
Reply
基本は二拝二拍手一拝です。
きほんはにはいにはくしゅいっぱいです。
The basic rule is two bows, two claps, one bow.
Gesture & etiquette
A polite nod or small bow when asking. Pointing subtly towards the main hall if clarification is needed.
Avoid disturbing others who are praying. Ask discreetly if possible. While most shrines follow 2 bows, 2 claps, 1 bow, some older or specific shrines may have different customs (e.g., Izumo Taisha with 4 claps).
#shrine#temple#etiquette#prayer#clapping#bowing