Formal — to stranger
Cultural · Religion
玉串を反時計回りに回して、根本を神前に向けてお供えします。 — Turn the tamagushi (sacred sakaki branch) counterclockwise, then offer it with the base pointing toward the altar. (Cultural · Religion, Formal — to stranger, JLPT N2)
You
玉串を反時計回りに回して、根本を神前に向けてお供えします。
たまぐしをはんとけいまわりにまわして、ねもとをしんぜんにむけておそなえします。
Turn the tamagushi (sacred sakaki branch) counterclockwise, then offer it with the base pointing toward the altar.
Romaji: Tamagushi wo hantokei-mawari ni mawashite, nemoto wo shinzen ni mukete osonae shimasu. / Reply Romaji: Naruhodo. Muzukashii sahou desu ne.
Reply
なるほど。難しい作法ですね。
なるほど。むずかしいさほうですね。
I see. It is a complex ritual.
Gesture & etiquette
Receive the tamagushi with both hands — right hand on the base, left supporting the leaves. Rotate the branch slowly so the base ends up facing the altar, then place it on the offering table. Two bows, two claps, one bow follow.
Shinto weddings (神前式) include tamagushi-houten (offering of the sacred sakaki branch). The counterclockwise rotation symbolizes humble self-presentation to the kami. Followed by 二礼二拍手一礼 (two bows, two claps, one bow). Foreigners attending should mirror the bride/groom and shrine staff quietly. Do not photograph during the ritual.