History and Origin of Gosuincho
What is the origin of the Goshuincho?
Gosyuincho is a notebook for collecting Gosyuin as proof of visits to shrines and temples.
There are various theories regarding the origin of Gosyuincho, but the most popular theory is that it originated in the first half of the 13th century (Kamakura period).
Rokujurokubu were people who made pilgrimages to 66 sacred sites throughout Japan to offer the Lotus Sutra, and these pilgrimages became popular from the Muromachi period through the Edo period.
However, in the latter part of the Edo period, the practice gradually declined, and only the custom of receiving a seal(Gosyuin) to commemorate the visit remained.
However, the term “Gosyuin” was not used during this period, and it is widely believed that it was not until the beginning of the Showa period (1926-1989) that people began to call the seals they received at temples and shrines “goshuin.
Basic use of Gosyuincho
Guide to Buying Your First Gosyuincho
Many people choose their favorite Gosyuincho at the temple or shrine they are visiting.
In addition to temples and shrines, Gosyuincho are also sold at stationery stores and on the Internet.
There is no particular rule for choosing Gosyuincho, so please enjoy choosing the one you like best.
Original Gosyuincho for temples and shrines are popular and can be purchased at the shrine or temple office.
Having Gosyuincho with the name of the temple or shrine and the unique character of the temple or shrine will be a good souvenir of your visit.
Many of them are sold for a limited time or in limited quantities, so we recommend those who are interested to check the official pages of temples and shrines frequently.
How to use Gosyuincho and manners
Gosyuin can be obtained at temples and shrines. The following is an explanation of how to obtain Gosyuin at temples and shrines, taking into account the differences between temples and shrines.
The place to receive Gosyuin is a red seal office. For temples, Gosyuin office is usually at the sutra office or temple office, and for shrines, Gosyuin office is often at the awarding office or shrine office.
In both cases, you should go there after paying your respects to the temple.
The most common fee is 300 yen, and the highest is about 500 yen.
Some temples and shrines say that the fee is “just a thought,” but even in such cases, 300 to 500 yen is probably appropriate.
At some shrines and temples, there may be no one to write Gosyuin.
In such cases, a printed Gosyuin called “kaki-oki” may be given to you.
You can put the “kaki-oki” in your Gosyuincho, so please be thankful for it.
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