42. GOSHUIN & EKI STAMPS

What is a Goshuin Stamp?

A Goshuin (御朱印) is a sacred stamp given at shrines (Shinto) and temples (Buddhist) in Japan. These beautifully hand-written stamps, along with calligraphy inscriptions, serve as proof of a visit and often include the date and the name of the site.

Collecting Goshuin is a meaningful tradition that blends spirituality, history, and art, making it a wonderful keepsake from your journey in Japan.

How to Get a Goshuin Stamp?

1️⃣ Bring a Goshuin-chō (御朱印帳) – This is a special book designed to collect Goshuin stamps. You can purchase one at major temples, shrines, or online.
2️⃣ Visit the Shrine or Temple – Head to the Goshuin counter (御朱印所, Goshuinjo), usually near the main hall.
3️⃣ Politely Ask for a Stamp – Say:
👉 "Goshuin o onegai shimasu" (御朱印をお願いします。) → "May I have a Goshuin, please?"
4️⃣ Pay the Fee – Usually 300-500 yen per stamp. Some places offer unique seasonal stamps.
5️⃣ Wait for the Calligraphy – A monk or shrine staff will handwrite elegant calligraphy and affix the red stamp inside your Goshuin-chō.
6️⃣ Bow & Thank Them – Say: "Arigatou gozaimashita" (ありがとうございました) as a sign of respect.

⛩ Note: Some temples require an entrance ticket before granting a Goshuin.

Stamp Collection Beyond Goshuin 📍✨

In addition to Goshuin, Japan has a popular culture of collecting stamps in various places:
🔹 Train Station Stamps (Eki Stamps - 駅スタンプ) – Found in many JR and subway stations across Japan. Each station has a unique design reflecting its local attractions.
🔹 Tourist Attraction Stamps – Available at castles, museums, and parks.
🔹 Hotel & Roadside Station Stamps – Some accommodations and roadside rest stops (道の駅, Michi-no-eki) have their own collectible stamps.

💡 Tip: To keep all your stamps organized, some people carry a stamp notebook (スタンプ帳, Stampu-chō).

Stamps Quest App 📱 – Find Stamps that match your itinerary

App to help you locate the stamps near you with an interactive map.