Religion in Japan - Shrines and Temples

Generally, people in Japan take part in both Shinto traditions as well as Buddhist rituals as a part of everyday life, even if they do not consider themselves particularly religious. It’s common to visit both shrines (Shinto) and temples (Buddhist), depending on the occasion. 

Introduce students to these two main religions and the places of worship associated with them. The video can be used on its own or with the accompanying materials to support teaching about religion in Japan. Download All Lesson Resources (Zip File 24MB) or see below for individual resources. 

Learning Objectives

• Students will learn about the two main religions in Japan, Shinto and Buddhism.
• They will become familiar with what can be seen at both shrines and temples and some of the customs associated with visiting them.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the lesson, students will be able to answer questions about Shinto and shrines and Buddhism and temples.
• Students will make an ema board typically seen at shrines in Japan.

Resources

• Presentation: Religion in Japan (20.5MB)
• Lesson Plan: Shrines and Temples
• Worksheet: Shrines and Temples (PDF)
• Template: Ema board (PDF)
• Teacher’s Background Notes: Religion in Japan (PDF)
• Video: Let's Visit a Shrine and a Temple

Additional Resources

• Worksheet: Write an Omikuji Fortune (PDF)
• Lesson: Obon Festival 
• Lesson: 7-5-3 Festival 

Loan Resources

• Ema (included in the activity chest)

  Note: This is a new resource and is under review; some sections may be revised or updated.