A Simple Guide to Goshuin

What’s a goshuin, you ask? Simply put, they are the best things ever.

To put it more informatively, they’re red and black collectable stamps that you can receive at many shrines and temples across Japan! They act as a kind of record, so people can always remember where they have worshipped.

I’ve collected over 80 during my 4 years here, and I’m always on the lookout for the next one to get.

Goshuin-cho are accordion-style notebooks just for stamps!

What do I need to start collecting?

For starters, you’ll need a goshuin-cho (御朱印帳). This is a small, accordion-style notebook just for stamps! Luckily, they’re pretty easy to find. They’re in stationary store and souvenir shops (where they tend to be on the cutesy side), as well as at temples and shrines (where they look a bit fancier). They are typically in the 1-2000 yen price range, so find one you like and get started on your collection.

The picture above shows my goshuin-cho! From left to right…

The pink/white one was my first from Zenko-ji in Nagano City. I’ve filled the whole thing up front and back!
The blue one next to it is from the Sanada Shrine in Ueda, by Ueda Castle. They’re known for their colorful stamps! I haven’t filled this one up yet.
The last book in this row was too pretty for me to pass up. It’s from the Sekijousan Saifuku Temple in Uonuma, Niigata Prefecture. It is famous for having a beautiful sculptured ceiling, created by the Michelangelo of Japan.
Last but certainly not least, the big book in the back is specifically for stamps collected from the 88 temple pilgrimage in Shikoku! I’ve only got 5 so far, but I’m looking forward to finishing the collection someday.

I’m at a shrine/temple! Where do I go to get a goshuin?

The place to get stamps is usually close to where you can find charms and other trinkets. If the stamps are in a separate location, there will be a sign near here to direct you.

Once you find the place, open up your stamp book to a blank page (open it from the left side first) and hand it to the attendant. If it is busy, you might get a numbered token in return. Walk around a bit, explore, then come back in a bit and check on its progress! You’ll pay once you get your book back. Keep in mind, too, that the book is double sided! When you fill up one side, just flip it over!

How much do they cost?

Goshuin are usually ￥300, but they can cost more if the stamp is larger, more intricate, or for a special occasion. Those are ones I always look forward to getting! The one from the shrine on the top of Mt. Fuji, for example, was a full ￥1000!