WATER ABLUTION

Chozu is the customary way to clean and purify oneself before offering prayers at shrines or temples. People used to cleanse their whole bodies by soaking in river water or pouring spring water over themselves. This traditional rite was later simplified for the general public, and people can now cleanse their hands and mouths at the chozu-ya (water ablution pavilion) situated by the approach to the shrine/temple. If you want to do chozu in an appropriate way that is respectful and considerate of the deities and other worshippers, it is recommended that you study the correct procedure and manners beforehand. Having done her homework, Mary washed her left hand and then right hand. When she was rinsing her mouth, a honeybee flew over to her. “Is this little insect also trying to cleanse itself before entering the shrine?” she wondered.