Folding Prayers in Japan
Nov 20, 2009
Across Japan, amidst the crowds or within the privacy of solitude, people read their fortunes and say their prayers. Depending on whether they like what they read, they tie the paper in neat knots outside the temple.
Debbie over at DeliciousBaby inspired me to join this Photo Friday – so I thought that this picture was particularly appropriate:
But I suppose the question is – what would you wish for?
I remember seeing those folded pieces of paper when we were in Japan a few years ago. It’s been a while since I’ve thought of them. Thanks for reminding me of the details that make travelling so interesting!
It is a wonderful glimpse of Japan. I have very fond memories of being a new English teacher in a rural part of Japan and having my students share this tradition with me.
I did this when I lived in Osaka. I wanted fortune and a man oh yes, a new apartment. I got the last one. Nice images.
My daughter’s good friend is Japanese and they visit Japan every year. I can’t wait to ask her mom at carpool tomorrow about this tradition, it will give us an interesting subject to share. Wonderful photographs!
Thanks for all the comments.
I’m curious to know, Cate, did you tie one piece of paper or three? Just refining my odds….:)
Love the closeups! I’m assuming you throw out the fortunes you don’t like and tie up the ones you do?
@Wanderluster
Thanks! With the Omikuji (the printed fortunes in these photos) you take home the predictions you do like and tie up the ones you don’t. The idea, then, is that the bad fortune gets tied up instead of following you home.
On the other hand, most shrines also have places for handwritten prayers (often on blocks of wood) and these ARE attached to the temple to increase the chances of the prayer being heard. Perhaps I should post a few photos of those…
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hi Abi! i really love your site and am a big fan! I have seen this done in Japan many times. When I watch the earnestness with which the Japanese perform this ritual i cannot help but feel that the paper represent hope and the reader represents faith.. hope for something better and faith that you will find it.
lovely shots. keep up the good blog!