Miko and Kannushi Experience

Movie English ver.

Movie Japanese ver.

Experience Overview

At Waseda Shrine, you can participate in a Shrine maiden or Shinto priest experience. Learn the rituals and etiquette of Shinto ceremonies at this historic shrine in Hiroshima, while wearing authentic attire for a truly special experience.

Shrine Maiden (Miko)

They are called “Miko(巫女)” in Japanese. A Miko is a female priestess who serves the Japanese gods. Since ancient times, Miko have performed sacred dances, offered prayers, and served in the presence of deities.

Shinto Priest (Kannushi)

They are called “Kannushi(神主)” in Japanese. A Kannushi is the chief priest of a shrine. They serve the gods at the shrine, conducting rituals and managing shrine affairs.

Experience Details

1.Welcome

The chief priest will welcome participants and share the history of Ushita Waseda Shrine, along with explanations of shrine etiquette.

2.Passing Through the Torii Gate

Participants bow before passing through the torii gate. Since the center is considered the path of the gods, they will walk on either the left or right side.

3.Temizu(Purifying themselves)

Before praying, participants will cleanse their hands and mouths using water. This act symbolizes purifying both the mind before approaching the gods.

4.Dressing in Traditional Attire

Women will wear a Miko (shrine-maiden) outfit, while men will dress in Kannushi(shrine-priest) attire with a “Hakui” and “Hakama”. Participants will have the opportunity to wear authentic ceremonial garments.

5.Miko-mai

Miko-mai is a type of Kagura dance performed by shrine maidens.
It was originally conducted as a sacred ritual, believed to invite the gods to descend.

6.Kannushi Experience

Participants will wear traditional priestly garments, including the kariginu and eboshi (priest’s cap), and learn proper shrine etiquette. They will also have the opportunity to take part in a prayer ritual.

7.Formal Worship Ceremony

Dressed in ceremonial attire, participants will enter the main shrine for a formal worship service, expressing gratitude to the gods. They will offer a tamagushi (sacred sakaki branch) as a sign of respect.

8.Photo Session

After the worship ceremony, participants can take photos within the shrine grounds to commemorate this special experience.

9.Omamori (Amulet) Making

Participants will have the opportunity to make their own omamori (amulet). It is believed that carrying an omamori blessed with divine energy can provide protection and good fortune.

Items

Please wear a white inner shirt.

※ If you have tabi socks and a koshi-himo (waist cord), please bring them. If you do not have them, we will provide them for you.

Eligibility for Participation

Women can participate in the Miko (shrine maiden) experience, while men can take part in the Kannushi (Shinto priest) experience.

Participation is possible as long as the costume size fits.

Participation Capacity

Up to 4 participants can join at the same time.

(Minimum of 2 participants required. For groups of more than 4, please contact us in advance.)

Apply here

About Reservation Application

Fee: 40,000 yen per adult (tax included)
Number of Participants: 2 to 4 people per session