How to pass through a torii

Is it alright to pass through the center of the torii gate? Since this is the pathway which the gods take, it is more polite to step to the side and walk through closer to the edges of the gate. Also, because the area beyond the torii is holy territory, please remember to make a bow before entering.

Washing your hands

It is said that before entering the shrine, washing your hands has the effect of purifying your heart and body.

1. With your right hand, use the water scoop to rinse your left hand.
2. Next, use your left hand to rinse your right hand.
3. Take the scoop in your right hand once more, pour some water into the palm of your left, and rinse your mouth. In this way, you do not touch the scoop directly.
4. Tilt the scoop vertically to remove any water left.
5. Place the scoop in the same position where you picked it up. The purifying ritual is complete.

Paying homage「二礼二拍手一礼」

1. Two bows 「二礼」 – Bending down to form a ninety degree angle, perform two deep bows before the altar.
2. Two claps 「二拍手」 – Stretching out your hands to the width of your shoulders, clap twice. Now, place your hands together again and say a prayer before returning them to your sides.
3. One bow 「一礼」 – Once again, make a deep bow.

A more formal version of this is:

One light bow –> two deep bows –> two claps –> one deep bow –> one light bow

(This is exactly the same as the process mentioned above with the addition of a light bow at the beginning and at the end)

This way of paying homage at the shrine is just a general example. Variations exist at specific shrines which have their own traditional versions.