Experience Omikuji at Japanese Shrines｜Meaning & Etiquette

When visiting Japanese shrines, one of the most popular cultural experiences for foreign travelers is drawing an Omikuji, a paper fortune. The excitement of pulling a slip that reveals your luck is unforgettable, but many tourists wonder: “How lucky is Great Blessing?” or “What should I do if I get Bad Luck?”

Omikuji comes with unique customs and shrine etiquette. Without understanding the meanings or proper manners, you might miss out on the true depth of this Japanese tradition.

In this guide, we explain the full list of fortune levels in English, along with how to draw Omikuji, common mistakes to avoid, payment methods, and even photo etiquette. With this knowledge, your Omikuji experience at a shrine will become not just fun, but a memorable highlight of your Japan trip.

How to Draw Omikuji at Shrines｜Step-by-Step Guide for Travelers

At Japanese shrines, Omikuji is an essential part of the visitor experience. The usual flow is to walk through the torii gate, pay your respects at the shrine, and then draw your fortune.

The process varies by shrine, but most involve paying a small fee—typically 100 to 300 yen—drawing a numbered stick from a box, and receiving a matching paper fortune. Since cash is required, especially coins, it’s wise to prepare change in advance. Some major shrines now offer Omikuji with English translations, which tourists find especially helpful.

For travelers, this is a recommended cultural activity that connects sightseeing with authentic tradition. By learning a few tips beforehand, you can enjoy Omikuji smoothly and make your shrine visit more meaningful.

Omikuji Fortune Meanings｜English Guide to Luck Levels

Omikuji fortunes range from “Great Blessing” (Daikichi) to “Bad Luck” (Kyo), with several levels in between such as “Good Fortune,” “Half Blessing,” or “Small Blessing.” Each represents a different degree of luck. Many travelers ask, “Which is better—Good Fortune or Small Fortune?” since the order can be confusing at first.

In shrines with English Omikuji, translations like “Great Blessing,” “Good Fortune,” and “Half Blessing” make it easier to understand. However, rankings may vary slightly by shrine, so when in doubt, ask a staff member. Knowing these details helps you avoid confusion and enjoy the experience more deeply.

Omikuji is not just a game of chance—it’s tied to Japanese culture and Shinto beliefs. With such a low cost, usually only a few hundred yen, it’s an easy and worthwhile experience for any visitor. Understanding the meanings adds value and creates lasting memories of your trip.

What to Do If You Get Bad Luck｜How to Tie Omikuji Correctly

Some tourists are surprised, even disappointed, when they draw “Bad Luck” or “Great Misfortune.” But these fortunes are not meant as curses. Instead, they are reminders to live carefully and avoid mistakes. One traveler shared, “I was shocked by a bad result, but tying it at the shrine helped me feel positive again.”

The usual custom is to tie bad fortunes to special racks or trees inside the shrine grounds. This act symbolizes leaving your bad luck behind and moving forward. A key etiquette point is to tie them only in designated areas. For many, this small ritual becomes a reassuring cultural experience.

Of course, you may also keep your Omikuji as a souvenir. Many travelers choose to take them home as part of their Japan memories.

Shrines Offering English Omikuji｜Where Tourists Can Feel at Ease

While Japanese-only Omikuji can be hard to read, more shrines now provide English or multilingual versions. For example, Sensoji Temple in Tokyo offers English fortunes, and Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto provides translated explanations for foreign visitors. One traveler commented, “Thanks to the translation, I truly understood the message and enjoyed the experience more.”

Not every shrine has English Omikuji, so check ahead of time. In some cases, official websites or travel guidebooks provide translations. Doing a little research before your visit helps you avoid confusion.

English Omikuji allow foreign travelers to engage with Japanese culture more fully. By combining shrine visits with this tradition, you’ll enjoy a special cultural experience and create unforgettable travel memories.

The History of Omikuji｜Faith and Fortune in Japanese Culture

Omikuji originated in the Heian period as a way to divine the will of the gods. By the Edo period, it had spread widely among ordinary people and became a popular part of shrine visits. Today, it is not only a tourist activity but also a practice deeply tied to faith and daily life in Japan. Many Japanese still draw Omikuji at New Year to predict the year ahead.

Visitors often notice how seriously Japanese people read their fortunes, reflecting the cultural weight of Omikuji. Results such as Great Blessing or Bad Luck are viewed as advice to reflect on one’s behavior and mindset. The key is to treat them as guidance rather than fixed predictions.

With a cost of just a few hundred yen, Omikuji carries centuries of tradition and belief. By learning its history, your experience will be richer, and your understanding of Japanese culture will deepen.

Conclusion

Drawing Omikuji at a Japanese shrine offers more than just fortune-telling—it’s a rare chance to connect with the country’s culture and faith. In this article, we covered how to draw Omikuji, what each fortune means, how to handle bad results, when to tie or keep your slip, payment details, and where to find English versions. Omikuji is not just about luck but about reflection and guidance. Understanding this tradition makes your trip more meaningful and memorable. For more tips on Japanese manners, be sure to read our guides on dining etiquette and hot spring manners.