Bow, rinse, clap, and walk away knowing exactly what you just did — and why.

You will almost certainly stand in front of a shrine at some point this year, and the difference between guessing and knowing takes about an hour to learn.

By the end

You will be able to approach any shrine in Japan, follow the correct sequence from gate to prayer, and explain what each step means to a friend who has never been.

Who this is for

Anyone curious about Japan's oldest living practice — whether you fly next month or will only ever visit through a screen.