{"id":73,"date":"2025-09-10T23:20:22","date_gmt":"2025-09-10T14:20:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kumamotosoulwalks.com\/?p=73"},"modified":"2025-09-10T23:53:39","modified_gmt":"2025-09-10T14:53:39","slug":"goshuin-books%ef%bd%9chow-to-start-temple-vs-shrine-etiquette-layout-rules-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kumamotosoulwalks.com\/?p=73","title":{"rendered":"Goshuin Books\uff5cHow to Start, Temple vs Shrine Etiquette, Layout Rules, and More"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

“Goshuin” books have become increasingly popular among both locals and international travelers in Japan.
They are not only beautiful mementos but also spiritual records of your temple and shrine visits.
In this post, we\u2019ll cover how to use them properly, the differences between temples and shrines, layout etiquette, and tips for choosing the right one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd38 Should You Separate Goshuin Books for Shrines and Temples?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ideally, yes. Since shrines (Shinto) and temples (Buddhist) are rooted in different belief systems, it\u2019s respectful to use separate books for each.
While it’s not forbidden to combine them, many people prefer to keep them distinct for spiritual and cultural reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd38 Starting with Geku and Naiku of Ise Grand Shrine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In tradition, the first and second pages of a Shinto-style Goshuin book are often reserved for the Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine) of Ise Jingu.
Ise Shrine holds a central position in Japanese Shinto spirituality, and beginning your Goshuin journey there is considered a respectful and auspicious practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd38 What is Ise Jingu?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ise Jingu, located in Mie Prefecture, consists of two major shrines: the Inner Shrine dedicated to Amaterasu-Omikami, and the Outer Shrine dedicated to Toyouke-Omikami.
It\u2019s known as the spiritual heart of Shinto and is often referred to as the most sacred shrine in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd38 How to Use Your Goshuin Book: Layout & Folding Style<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Goshuin books generally come in two formats:
\u30fbBook-style (open left to right like a notebook)
\u30fbAccordion-style (folded like a screen \u2014 the most common type)

With accordion-style books, you should start from the right and proceed left. The back side is usually left blank. Also, don\u2019t start on the first fold; leave it empty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd38 Two Types: Handwritten (On-site) & Prewritten Sheets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are two ways to receive Goshuin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n