Izumo Taishakyo Shinto Shrine Honolulu
Experience authentic Shinto traditions and Japanese culture at Honolulu's Izumo Taishakyo Shrine, a peaceful spiritual haven.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Izumo Taishakyo Shinto Shrine Honolulu
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Shinto traditions and Japanese culture at Honolulu's Izumo Taishakyo Shrine, a peaceful spiritual haven.
"A great chance to see how Japanese culture thrives in Honolulu, offering a unique prayer experience."
🎯 Respectful Prayer Steps
Bow at torii, walk sides, toss coins gently, ring bell, bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially during holidays. Plan ahead and be patient.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Torii Gate
The sacred entrance marking the boundary between the human and divine worlds. Remember to bow before passing through.
Prayer Ritual
Experience the unique Shinto prayer: wash hands, ring bell, donate, bow twice, clap four times, pray, and bow deeply.
Omamori Charms
Purchase traditional Japanese good luck charms (Omamori) to take a piece of the shrine's blessings home.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Shinto Etiquette
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Prayer Steps
Bow at torii, walk sides, toss coins gently, ring bell, bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially during holidays. Plan ahead and be patient.
🤝 Cultural Exchange
Observe Japanese tourists for authentic prayer etiquette.
🍀 Good Luck Charms
Buy Omamori for blessings; proceeds support the shrine.
Scratch the Japan itch in Honolulu?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Prayer Steps
Bow at torii, walk sides, toss coins gently, ring bell, bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited, especially during holidays. Plan ahead and be patient.
🤝 Cultural Exchange
Observe Japanese tourists for authentic prayer etiquette.
🍀 Good Luck Charms
Buy Omamori for blessings; proceeds support the shrine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the opportunity to experience Japanese culture and Shinto traditions in Honolulu, especially the unique prayer rituals and the availability of Omamori charms. While some find it a peaceful escape, others note that it can get crowded, particularly during New Year's, and parking can be a challenge. The shrine is seen as a place for spiritual reflection and cultural learning.
"We enjoy visiting shrines in Japan and now a great chance to see how Japanese culture in Honolulu. Recommend to come early in the morning to get away from the crowd."
Y妹Y笨
"It’s a good place to learn some Japanese culture. I happened to meet a group of Japanese tourists who visited the shrine and prayed. I observed their unique way of praying: wash hands, ring the bell, donate money, bow twice, clap hands four times, pray and bow once deeply."
cindy amimer
"Common Ground(s): My search for common spiritual and humanitarian interests and endeavors across various faiths begins here in Honolulu, Hawaii. What do we each believe? What common beliefs and humanitaritarian outlooks do we share? A look across the very diverse groups of respective "pilgrims" (those on life-long faith journeys here in Hawaii).
Dad (and Mom) began this journey many years ago. It does not originate with me. I'm simply building upon their embrace of a common humanity. Yes. We have dramatic and diverse faiths and very clear differences. But, while there are these definite divergent beliefs, what valuable values do we share in common? They were United Church of Christ Protestan Christian missionaries to Aizu, Japan.
There were respectful, exploratory discussions on how to approach and help attempt to solve our human problems. And, there were those discussions about the issue of an afterlife.
These, I believe, are some very basic beliefs, attitudes and values which we ALL share in common. I want to discover the key, leading values which we share in common. Here, I don't want to emphasize our differences.
These are my guiding thoughts for now."
Ken Kroehler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The shrine is located near Chinatown. Public transportation options are available, and ride-sharing services are also convenient. Check local transit apps for the best routes.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited, especially during peak times like New Year's. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the shrine grounds is generally free. Donations are welcome to support the shrine's upkeep.
While specific hours can vary, it's best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds. For New Year's blessings, it's open very early.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Izumo Taishakyo Shinto Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation if they wish.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The traditional Shinto prayer involves washing hands, ringing a bell, offering coins, bowing twice, clapping four times, praying, and bowing deeply once more. +1
Photography is generally permitted on the grounds, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer ceremonies.
Omamori are Japanese good luck charms. You can purchase a variety of Omamori at the shrine, with proceeds supporting its operations.
Ringing the bell is a way to summon the gods and announce your presence before prayer.
The middle path of the shrine is traditionally reserved for deities only. It's best to walk on the sides.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The shrine is located near Chinatown, which offers a wide variety of dining options, from local eateries to international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The torii gate is a classic photo opportunity. The main shrine building and the surrounding grounds also offer picturesque views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to observe the prayer etiquette and perhaps purchase a small Omamori charm as a memento. The shrine's location near Chinatown also offers easy access to diverse food options for family meals after your visit. Remember to explain the importance of quiet and respectful behavior within the shrine grounds.
⛩️ Culture Enthusiasts
Engage with the history of the shrine, established in 1906 to serve Japanese immigrants. The availability of Omamori and the opportunity to witness or participate in prayer rituals provide a deep dive into spiritual traditions. It's also a chance to reflect on the shared spiritual and humanitarian values across different faiths, as noted by some visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Shinto Etiquette
Once inside, you'll notice a purification fountain. The ritual involves washing your hands and mouth. The typical sequence for prayer is to first ring the bell to alert the deities, then offer a monetary donation into the offering box. Following this, perform the prayer itself: two bows, two claps, a prayer, and a final deep bow.
Observing how local worshippers or Japanese tourists perform these rituals can be very helpful. Many visitors find it enriching to learn and practice these respectful gestures, enhancing their experience and showing reverence for the sacred space.
The History and Significance of Izumo Taisha
Since its establishment, the shrine has served as a spiritual center for both the local Japanese-American community and visitors. It's particularly popular for New Year's blessings, drawing many people seeking good fortune for the year ahead. The shrine offers a variety of Omamori, or good luck charms, which are popular souvenirs and a way for visitors to carry the shrine's blessings with them. The funds generated from the sale of these charms help support the shrine's operations and community services.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit