Goshuincho: The Best Souvenir to Buy in Japan!

Whenever someone asks me what my favourite souvenir I bought from Japan was, my answer is immediately a Goshuincho. More than likely this isn’t anything you’ve ever heard of before. Before I went to Japan for the first time I didn’t know anything about it either. It was pure happenstance that I happened to see a Japanese tourist buy hers for the first time. The ritual was mesmerizing. Seeing the wonderful tradition which encompassed Goshuinchos, I bought my own and proceeded to learn as much as I could about them. I wanted to share with you everything I’ve learned and why you should get one for yourself if you’re visiting Japan.

What is a Goshuincho

A goshuincho is, simply, a stamp book. A goshuinchō (御朱印帳) translates to, a “book of seals”. Goshuinchos are brought to shines or temples where they get it stamped. A small donation to the temple is required to get the stamp. This is a beautiful way that the temple can get donations but also provide something back to the giver.

History of Goshuincho

Each of these shrine stamps is wonderfully unique and imaginatively designed. The shrine stamps are pressed into the goods in stunning vermillion ink. Along with the stamp, the attendant will write in elegant calligraphy the days date and sometimes other details. These stamps were once used for pilgrims to mark the places they had visited. Goshuinchos were originally only something that very religious people in Japan would use. The younger generations of Japanese society became less and less religious over time and with this came the disappearance of Goshuinchos. But surprisingly, in the last few years, they have seen a resurgence. Tourists, both Japanese and from abroad, started viewing them as collectable items and great souvenirs.

Where to Find Goshuincho Books?

The best goshuincho books can be purchased at a Japanese temple or shrine. The more popular the temple, the more variety of designs they will have. They will cost around ¥1,500. The price depends on the amount of embroidery so more or less will bring the price up or down. There are so many different styles, colours and designs that it’s often hard to pick. Be sure to pick up your goshuincho at the first temple you visit. This way, you’ll have your goshuincho with you everywhere you go from then on and can collect more stamps. Don’t leave it till you find the perfect one or else you’ll miss collecting so many temple stamps along the way.

Alternatively, you can also go to a stationery store in Japan where they are often also sold now. You can also bring a blank notebook from home if you’re looking for a budget option. But I think buying the book at the temple is just another element of the ritual of the goshuincho.

First, Pay your Respects

When coming to a shrine to collect your stamp, it is considered good manners to pay your respects. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a great way of connecting to the temple and the Japanese culture. To pay your respects, enter the temple or shine and find the bell. Ring the bell (if there is one) 2 or 3 times to signal to the gods that you have arrived. Deeply bow twice. Clap twice, with your left hand slightly in front. Remember to thank the gods as well.

How to Buy your Goshuincho Stamp

Head over to the reception desk of the temple or shrine. This will usually be behind the area where they sell various amulets or ema placards. The fee for the stamp is around ¥300 to ¥500 depending on the importance of the shrine. Try to use exact change, as the smaller shrines won’t accept larger bills. If it’s not a busy day usually you can watch the priest creating your stamp. If it is a particularly busy day, you’ll be given a small number token and you can return later to collect your book.

After the stamp is placed in your book, the ink will usually still be wet. The priest will either find two blanks pages or will place a thin piece of paper over the top. This way the stamp won’t bleed onto any other stamps in the book.

TIPS

• Don’t write or draw in your book. Goshuinchos are meant only for priests or monks to place their stamps.

• If you’ve forgotten your book, ask the attendant as they usually can stamp a blank page for you. This way you can later paste this piece into your book.

These days, Japan has taken a modern approach to Goshuincho stamps. When visiting various secular tourist sites, you’ll sometimes see smaller red stamps which you can stamp into your notebooks. These are representative of the location and are meant for kids or just for fun. These are free and are a great way to commemorate your visit. But be sure not the mix the two up, and don’t put just any stamp in your Goshuincho.

Making Memories

One of my favourite memories of my latest trip to Japan involved hiking up to the Hakone shrine. It was so early in the morning and I took the hike in the pouring wind and rain. I had had it in my mind that I just had to visit the shrine and get my Goshuincho. Despite the bad weather I knew it would be my only chance to see it. So I braved the weather, and ended up being one of the only people there. I feel like the priest who made my Goshuincho gave me an extra big smile since he could tell I had been through hell and back to get there. Now every time I look at that stamp I remember all that effort it took to get there, and I smile.

I love looking back at all the different stamps in my book. I truly recommend getting one for yourself. I am waiting for the day when mine is full and I get to pick a new one for more adventures!

Let me know in the comments what your favourite souvenir you’ve ever purchased was?

Happy Travels Adventurers!