Shrine Visit Etiquette

First of all,
what is most important is to visit with a respectful heart.
I have my own way of doing things, but this alone is sufficient.

1.
Bow once before the torii gate. Note that if there are multiple torii gates, doing this at the first one is sufficient.
After bowing, please enter the shrine grounds with your 'left foot'.

2.
Purify your hands at the chozuya (water pavilion). Fill the ladle with water,
and purify your hands in the order of left first, then right.
After that, pour water into your left hand and lightly rinse your mouth
(if you are concerned about the water, it is perfectly fine to just touch it to your lips)
Finally, please return the water quietly.

※ In my personal practice, I use a handkerchief and do not return the water on the spot,

If there are people waiting behind you, it is considerate to turn the ladle upside down at the end and use the remaining water to rinse the handle you were holding, so the next person can use it comfortably.

3.
Once you have proceeded to the front of the shrine, please bow once.
If there are stairs before you, adding a bow before climbing them
is even more polite.

4.
Offer your coins.
Please place them in gently rather than throwing them in roughly.

5.
Ring the bell quietly.
※ Since I often go early in the morning, I usually do not ring it out of consideration for those living in the surrounding area,

6.

This is the most important part.Bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, and then recite your vows or wishes in your heart.

If you have multiple things to pray for,
it is perfectly fine to write them down on a piece of paper beforehand.

When you are finished, finally, one more time,
bow quietly once.

This sequence of actions is called 'two bows, two claps, one bow'.
However, please note that at Izumo Taisha, it is 'two bows, four claps, one bow'.

7.
When leaving, pass through the torii gate with your 'right foot',
and it is good to turn around and bow once.

That is all.

Even if you make some mistakes, the gods will not blame you.
What is most important is to approach them with a respectful heart from beginning to end.
If you try this etiquette when you visit a shrine from time to time,
your heart will naturally become composed.