Purify at the water basin
Most shrines and many temples have a water basin (chouzuya) at the entrance. The ritual cleans your hands and mouth before approaching.
Do's
- Scoop water with the right hand, rinse the left
- Switch hands and rinse the right
- Pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth (don't drink from the ladle)
- Tip the ladle upright so remaining water cleans the handle
Don'ts
- Don't drink directly from the ladle
- Don't spit water back into the basin
Tips
If you forget the order, a quick rinse of both hands is acceptable.