Torii: a gate marking the division between profane and

sacred space at Shinto shrines.

The sando is a pathway leading from outside the shrine compound to the front of a structure for worshippers….A sando is usually lined with an avenue of trees or otherwise marked in order to be distinguished from regular pathways. Frequently the sando crosses a pond or stream with a sacred bridge called a shinkyo. This crossing symbolizes the purification of mind. In some cases, the shrine pathway is marked with stone stairways and lined with stone lanterns.

Since one of the most important functions of Shinto rituals is that of purification, clean water is always provided for washing the

hands and rinsing the mouth before approaching the shrine.

Prayers are normally offered at the outer temple in the “worship hall” (haiden), which faces the sanctuary (honden) of the inner temple.

Izumo (Japan's second most important shrine): The sacred ropes hanging over the front entry are twisted together from rice straw.

Called shimenawa, they are used to mark a sacred precinct. They are traditionally believed to ward off evil and sickness.

Families traditionally bring their one-month old baby to the local shrine

to be presented to the tutelary (protecting) kami of the region.

Priests frequently perform ceremonial purification by waving a branch from the sacred sakaki tree.

Wooden plaque at the Tomakomai Shinto shrine. Worshipers may purchase a prayer board or amulet for protection or assistance. These boards are most popular with students

requesting help in school or with exams.