Goshuin facts for kids

Goshuin are special stamps or seals you can get when you visit a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple in Japan. Think of them like a unique souvenir that shows you were there! Besides the stamp itself, people working at the shrine or temple will often write the date of your visit, the name of the temple or shrine, and the name of the deity (god or spirit) honored there. All of this is written beautifully in black ink. The special notebook used to collect these stamps is called a "Goshuin-cho".

What is Goshuin?

A Goshuin is more than just a stamp; it's a piece of art and a spiritual record. When you receive one, it usually includes a large red stamp, which is the official seal of the shrine or temple. Next to this stamp, a calligrapher (someone skilled in beautiful writing) will hand-write important details. This includes the date you visited, the name of the place, and sometimes the main deity or Buddha worshipped there. The ink used is usually black, and the writing is done with a brush, making each Goshuin unique.

Why Collect Goshuin?

Many people collect Goshuin as a way to remember their visits to different shrines and temples. It's a popular activity for pilgrims and tourists alike. For some, it's a spiritual journey, connecting them to the many sacred places across Japan. Each Goshuin serves as a proof of worship and a blessing. It's also a way to appreciate the beautiful calligraphy and unique designs of each shrine or temple's seal.

The Goshuin-cho Notebook

The "Goshuin-cho" is a special notebook designed specifically for collecting Goshuin. These notebooks are often very beautiful, with unique covers and high-quality paper that can handle the ink without bleeding. You can buy them at most shrines and temples, or at stationery stores. Many people enjoy choosing a Goshuin-cho that matches their personal style. Collecting Goshuin in these notebooks creates a wonderful record of your travels and spiritual experiences.

How to Get a Goshuin

Getting a Goshuin is a simple process. First, make sure you have your Goshuin-cho ready. After you have offered your prayers or paid your respects at the shrine or temple, look for a special counter. This counter is often called the "Juyosho" (授与所) or "Nokyo-jo" (納経所). You hand your Goshuin-cho to the person at the counter, who will then carefully stamp and write in your notebook. There is usually a small fee, often around 300 to 500 yen, to cover the cost of the ink and the calligrapher's time. It's a good idea to have the exact change ready.

Images for kids

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  A Goshuin-cho (朱印帳) notebook

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  A Kasane-in (重ね印), which means overlapping stamps

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  Byakue (白衣), a white robe worn by pilgrims

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  Miei (御影), a scroll or image given to pilgrims

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  Sange (散華), decorative paper petals

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  Mangan (満願の証), a certificate showing a completed pilgrimage

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  A Goshuin from Dairen-ji (大蓮寺) temple

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  Pilgrimage, a journey to sacred places