What is the difference between shrine and temple etiquette in Japan?

At Shinto shrines: bow at the torii gate, purify at the water basin, then bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once. At Buddhist temples: bow at the gate, light incense if offered, place palms together (gassho) and bow once — do NOT clap (that is only for shrines). Remove shoes when entering any building at either.

Can you take photos of geisha in Kyoto?

In 2019, Kyoto passed regulations banning photography on private streets in the Gion geisha district, with fines up to ¥10,000. On public streets like Hanami-koji, you may photograph the street scenery, but never chase, block, touch, or take close-up photos of geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentices) without permission. They are professionals heading to work, not performers.

Do you tip in Kyoto restaurants?

No. Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can be considered rude or confusing. Service is already included in the price. Simply say "gochisousama deshita" (thank you for the meal) when leaving. Pay at the register rather than leaving money on the table.

What should I wear to visit temples in Kyoto?

Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered as a sign of respect. There is no strict dress code, but revealing clothing is considered disrespectful at sacred sites. Remove hats and sunglasses inside buildings. Wear slip-on shoes as you will remove them frequently when entering temple halls.

Kyoto Etiquette Guide

Respecting local customs isn't just polite — it deepens your experience. These guidelines help you connect authentically with Kyoto's living cultural heritage.

At Temples & Shrines

Shinto Shrine Worship (参拝)

1. Torii gate: Bow slightly before passing through. Walk to the side, not the center (the center path is for the deity).
2. Temizu (purification): At the water basin, rinse left hand, then right hand, then pour water into left hand to rinse your mouth (don't touch the ladle to your lips). Let remaining water run down the handle.
3. At the altar: Toss a coin (5 yen is lucky — "go-en" sounds like "good connection"), bow twice deeply, clap twice, pray silently, bow once more.
4. Leaving: Turn to face the shrine, bow slightly at the torii gate before exiting.

Buddhist Temple Etiquette (お寺)

1. Gate entrance: Bow at the main gate (sanmon). Step over the threshold with your left foot first (tradition).
2. Incense: If offered, light incense, wave it (don't blow), place in the burner, and waft smoke toward yourself (believed to have healing properties).
3. At Buddha statues: Place palms together (gassho), bow once. Do NOT clap (that's only at shrines).
4. Shoes: Remove shoes when entering any building. Face them outward. Use provided slippers if available.
5. Photography: Check signs. Many main halls prohibit photography. Never use flash. Ask before photographing monks.

General Sacred Site Rules

• Speak quietly — these are active places of worship
• Don't sit on stone walls or lean on structures
• Stay on designated paths (especially in moss gardens)
• Don't point at statues or sacred objects

• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered is respectful)
• Remove hats and sunglasses inside buildings
• Don't eat or drink in temple/shrine areas
• Follow one-way routes when marked

In Gion (Geisha District)

Gion is a living, working neighborhood — not a theme park. Geiko (Kyoto geisha) and maiko (apprentices) are professional artists heading to or from work. Treat them with the same respect you'd give any professional.

Please Do Not

✕ Chase, follow, or block geiko/maiko on the street
✕ Touch their kimono, hair, or accessories
✕ Take close-up photos without permission
✕ Enter private alleys or ochaya (tea houses)
✕ Smoke while walking or block narrow streets
✕ Sit on private doorsteps or lean on buildings

Respectful Ways to Enjoy

✓ Observe quietly from a respectful distance
✓ If eye contact happens, a small bow is lovely
✓ Book a dinner at a restaurant with geisha entertainment
✓ Visit Gion Corner for public cultural performances
✓ Walk slowly, stay aware of your surroundings
✓ Support local businesses — buy from Gion shops

Note: In 2019, Kyoto passed regulations banning photography on private streets in Gion. Fines up to ¥10,000 are possible. Public streets (like Hanami-koji) are fine for photos of the street itself, but always ask before photographing individuals.

Dining Etiquette

Chopstick Rules

• Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (funeral rite)
• Don't pass food chopstick-to-chopstick (also funeral)
• Don't point or gesture with chopsticks

• Rest chopsticks on the hashioki (chopstick rest)
• Don't rub disposable chopsticks together (implies they're cheap)
• Use the reverse end to take from shared plates

General Dining

• Say "itadakimasu" before eating (I humbly receive)
• Say "gochisousama" after eating (thank you for the meal)
• Slurping noodles is acceptable and shows appreciation
• Lifting bowls to your mouth is proper (for rice, soup)

• Don't tip — it can be considered rude in Japan
• Pay at the register, not at the table (usually)
• "Oshibori" wet towels are for hands only, not face
• Many restaurants are cash-only (carry ¥5,000-10,000)

General Etiquette in Kyoto

On Trains & Buses

• Set phones to silent ("manner mode")
• Don't talk on the phone
• Priority seats for elderly/disabled/pregnant
• Queue orderly at marked platform positions
• Don't eat on local trains (shinkansen is fine)

On the Street

• Don't eat while walking (tabearuki)
• Smoke only in designated areas
• Walk on the left side of the street
• Use trash bags — public bins are rare
• Keep conversations at moderate volume

At Ryokans & Hotels

• Remove shoes at the entrance (always)
• Wear provided yukata and slippers in common areas
• Shower before entering onsen baths
• No swimsuits in traditional baths
• Return room to tidy state when leaving

→ Temples & Shrines Guide → Gion Neighborhood Guide → Kyoto Food & Dining → Cultural Experiences

Experience Kyoto Respectfully

Book guided cultural experiences to learn proper etiquette from expert local guides.

Browse Itineraries View Hotel Deals