Bowing and Clappings at Shrines in Japan

When visiting shinto shrines to pray, there is a fixed manner called Ni-rei ni-hakusyu ichi-rei(二礼二拍手一礼/Two bows, two claps, one bow).

How to

1: Throw a coin into the offertory-box
2: Bow twice
3: Clap twice
4: Bow once more
5: Have a heart full of gratitude

1: Throw a coin into the offertory-box

Throw your coin in at the front of shrine.

2: Bow twice

3: Clap twice

Clap twice at the height of your chest. Then make a wish and pray.

4: Bow once more

Show Your Gratitude

Of course, you don't need to be too formal, it's what's in your heart that matters. Showing gratitude towards God is all you need to do after all.

If you have a chance to visit some shrines in Japan, try this along with the locals!