Formal — to stranger
Cultural · Etiquette
You
二礼二拍手一礼でよろしいですか？
にれいにはくしゅいちれいでよろしいですか？
Is it two bows, two claps, and one bow? (confirming shrine etiquette)
Romaji: Nirei nihakushu ichire de yoroshii desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Hai, sono toori desu. Mazu futatsu ojiginasatte kara, futastu te o tatakimasu.
Reply
はい、その通りです。まず二つお辞儀なさってから、二つ手を叩きます。
はい、そのとおりです。まずふたつおじぎなさってから、ふたつてをたたきます。
Yes, that's right. First bow twice, then clap twice, then bow once.
Gesture & etiquette
Stand upright before the offering box, drop a coin in, then perform the sequence slowly: two deep bows (about 90 degrees), two firm claps with palms meeting cleanly, hands together briefly in prayer, then one final bow. Speak your prayer silently.
Two bows, two claps, one bow (nirei nihakushu ichire) is the standard Shinto shrine etiquette for praying at a haiden. Some shrines have variations — always check the posted instructions. Asking before proceeding shows respectful intent and is welcomed.