How to Worship at Nachi Taisha: The Trick Is 'Switching Prayer Styles' | Etiquette on Nachisan Where the Shrine and Seiganto-ji Temple Stand Side by Side

What to Know First About Worshipping at Nachi Taisha

Often simply called "Nachi Taisha," this shrine's official name is Kumano Nachi Taisha. It sits on the mid-slope of Mt. Nachi, and right next door stands Seiganto-ji, known as the first of the 33 pilgrimage temples of western Japan (Saigoku Sanjūsansho).

The sight of a shrine and temple side by side is proof that the history of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism still lives on in Kumano. For this reason, on Mt. Nachi there are moments when you need to switch your style of worship partway through. If you keep just this point in mind, even those unsure of the etiquette can visit calmly.

The Flow of Worship at Kumano Nachi Taisha

1. A Light Bow Before Passing Through the Torii

Whether you've climbed the stone steps from Daimonzaka or arrived by bus or car, bow once before entering the precincts. Walking along the edge of the approach leaves the center open as the path of the gods. There's no need to rush. After climbing the long stone steps, catch your breath as you walk.

2. Purify Yourself at the Chozuya (Water Pavilion)

At the water pavilion, purify yourself in this order:

1. Hold the ladle in your right hand and wash your left hand
2. Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand
3. Pour water into your left hand and rinse your mouth
4. Wash your left hand once more
5. Stand the ladle upright and let the remaining water run down the handle to cleanse it

As long as you avoid putting your mouth directly on the ladle, that's enough.

3. Pray at the Main Hall

The basic shrine style is two bows, two claps, one bow.

1. Quietly place your offering in the box
2. Bow deeply twice
3. Clap your hands twice at chest height
4. Convey your wish or thanks in your heart
5. Finish with one deep bow

Kumano Nachi Taisha has several halls lined up, each enshrining different deities. The approach is simple: pray first at the central hall, then visit the other halls in order as time allows. Rather than trying to make a perfect round of every hall, taking each one carefully will leave a more lasting impression.

At Seiganto-ji, Switch to "Hands Together in Prayer"

After visiting the grand shrine, head next door to Seiganto-ji. At temples, you do not clap. Instead, quietly place your hands together and bow once. When clapping has become a habit at the shrine, it's easy to clap by mistake. This is the key "switching" point.

From within the temple grounds, there's a spot where you can see the vermilion three-storied pagoda together with Nachi Falls. Pausing to take in the view after worship is one of the special pleasures unique to Mt. Nachi.

After Worship: Thinking About the Falls and Goshuin Stamps

Nachi Falls has long been revered as the sacred object (goshintai) of Hiro Shrine. If you head to the falls after visiting the grand shrine, you'll follow a natural flow: "from the hall atop the mountain down to the place where you worship the water itself."

Goshuin stamps are generally received separately at the shrine and the temple. Since reception locations and hours can change, please check the signage on the day of your visit.

Mindset for When You're Unsure

• Even if you make a mistake in etiquette, worshipping with sincerity is not considered rude
• During busy times, prioritizing the prayer line over taking photos first makes the experience more pleasant for everyone
• The stone steps can be wet, so watch your footing even while worshipping

On Mt. Nachi, the best way to worship is to switch your prayer style between the shrine and temple, and to walk while taking in the quiet of the grounds. Breathe deeply, take your time, and savor the atmosphere of Kumano's living faith.

Image: 和歌山フォトライブラリー (via 和歌山フォトライブラリー)