How to Draw Omikuji at Sensoji Temple – Meaning, Types, and What to Do

Discover the meaning, history, and spiritual depth of omikuji, Japan’s traditional fortune slips. Learn how to draw them at Sensoji Temple and what to do with your result.

What Is Omikuji? (Japanese Fortune Slips Explained)

If you visit Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks, you will likely see people shaking a silver box and drawing small paper slips. These are called omikuji, traditional Japanese fortune slips found at temples and shrines.At Sensoji Temple, visitors draw omikuji from wooden drawers like these.

Each slip reveals a fortune ranging from Great Blessing (Daikichi) to Bad Fortune (Kyo). For visitors, this ritual is both entertaining and meaningful—a small moment of reflection rooted in Japanese spirituality.

How to Draw Omikuji at Sensoji Temple (Step-by-Step Guide)

Trying omikuji is simple, but it also carries a sense of respect and mindfulness.

1. Purify your hands at the temizuya (water basin)
2. Offer a silent prayer or make a wish
3. Shake the omikuji box gently until a stick comes out
4. Match the number on the stick to a drawer
5. Take your fortune slip
6. Read your result carefully

💡 Many temples, including Sensoji, offer English translations for international visitors.

Omikuji Fortune Types (From Daikichi to Kyo)

Omikuji fortunes follow a traditional ranking system, but you may notice that the English expressions used at temples like Sensoji are sometimes unique or slightly unusual. This is because many of these translations were created decades ago and are still used today.

Here is a comparison to help you understand:

Each omikuji also includes detailed predictions about areas such as love, health, travel, and business.　While the wording may feel old-fashioned, it reflects the long history and charm of this tradition. Because there is no strict standard across Japan, the wording and order of fortunes can vary depending on the temple or shrine.

What Do Omikuji Say?

Omikuji are more than simple predictions. Traditionally, they include poetic verses influenced by Buddhist teachings. The origins of omikuji date back over 1,000 years to Ryōgen, a Buddhist monk from Enryakuji Temple. He used classical Chinese poetry (gogon zetsuku) to deliver spiritual guidance rather than fixed predictions.

Even today, many omikuji reflect this philosophy—offering advice for living rather than absolute fortune.

What to Do with Omikuji After Drawing It

After reading your omikuji, what you do next depends on your result:

• Good fortune: Many people keep it in their wallet as a charm
• Bad fortune: Tie it to the rack prepared by temples.

This practice is believed to help prevent bad luck from following you.

Experiencing omikuji is simple, but it also offers a meaningful glimpse into Japanese spirituality.If you would like to explore temple and shrine culture more deeply, you may enjoy guided cultural experiences like those offered by Wabunka, where you can learn directly from local experts.

👉 Explore temple and shrine experiences in Japan:

Why Do People Tie Omikuji? (The Meaning of Musubi)

If you receive a bad fortune, you will often see people tying their omikuji to a designated rack or tree. This act is called musubi (結び), meaning “to tie” or “to connect.” It symbolizes letting go of negative outcomes and creating a connection with better fortune.Rather than fearing bad luck, this practice reflects a hopeful and forward-looking mindset.

While tying the omikuji is one way to leave bad luck behind, some people also choose to carry an omamori as ongoing protection and support in their daily lives.

👉 Discover the meaning of omamori in Japan:

The Cultural Meaning of Omikuji in Japan

Omikuji reflects Japan’s unique spiritual perspective. Although many Japanese people do not identify with a specific religion, they regularly visit shrines and temples during important life events such as New Year, weddings, and seasonal rituals.

This tradition shows a quiet, everyday spirituality—one that values reflection, gratitude, and harmony over strict belief systems. Drawing omikuji is not just about luck. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect with oneself.

FAQ About Omikuji

Q: What does omikuji mean?
A: Omikuji are Japanese fortune slips that provide guidance and predictions about your future.

Q: What should I do if I get bad luck?
A: You can tie it at the temple to leave the bad fortune behind.

Q: Can tourists try omikuji?
A: Yes, many temples provide English versions.

Q: How much does omikuji cost?
A: Usually around 100–200 yen.

Final Thoughts

Omikuji may seem like a simple activity, but it represents a deeper cultural idea—accepting uncertainty while staying mindful and hopeful.Next time you visit Japan, take a moment to draw an omikuji. It may offer more than just a prediction—it may offer perspective.

If you are interested in Japanese spiritual culture, you may also enjoy learning about Goshuin, the beautiful calligraphy stamps collected at temples and shrines.

👉Read more about Goshuin here

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