The Ultimate Japanese Scavenger Hunt: Why You Need a “Goshuin” Stamp Book
You visit a beautiful shrine. You take a photo of the gate. You buy a charm. You leave. You missed the best part.
Did you know that almost every shrine and temple in Japan offers a unique, hand-written certificate to prove you visited? It is called a “Goshuin” (Go-shoo-in).
It is not a childish rubber stamp. It is a piece of art. A monk or priest will hand-write the name of the temple and the date in beautiful calligraphy, and stamp it with vermilion red seals.
It is the ultimate travel diary. And the best part? It’s a quest. As your friend, I’m going to teach you how to start your “Goshuin” journey.
Step 1: Buy the “Book” (Goshuin-cho)
Rule #1: You cannot use a random notebook. The monks will refuse to write in your sketchbook or diary. You must have a specific book called a “Goshuin-cho”.
- Where to buy:
- At the Shrine/Temple: Most major shrines sell their own beautiful, exclusive designs (embroidered with dragons, flowers, etc.).
- Stationery Stores: Loft or Tokyu Hands have huge sections.
- Cost: About 1,500 – 2,000 JPY ($10-$14).
Step 2: Find the “Office”
When you arrive at a shrine or temple, look for a window marked “Goshuin” or “Shuin-jo” (Stamp Office). It is usually near the main hall or the charm shop.
Step 3: The Etiquette (How to Ask)
This is a religious act, not a transaction. Be polite.
- Open your book to the blank page where you want the stamp.
- Hand it to the monk/staff.
- Say: “Goshuin, onegaishimasu.” (Goshuin, please).
- Pay the fee: Usually 300 JPY or 500 JPY. (Please try to have exact change!).
- Wait quietly. Do not talk loudly or eat while watching them write. It is a moment of focus for them.
- Receive it: Say “Arigatou gozaimasu” and bow.
Step 4: The “Paper” Rule
Sometimes, if the monk is busy (or if you don’t have a book yet), they will give you a piece of paper with the calligraphy already written on it. This is normal! Take it home and glue it into your book later.
Why You Should Do This
- It’s Beautiful: By the end of your trip, you will have a book filled with incredible Japanese calligraphy. It looks amazing on your shelf at home.
- It’s a “Quest”: It encourages you to visit smaller, quieter temples you might have skipped.
- It’s a Memory: Every time you look at a page, you will remember the specific day and place you visited.
Important Warning! (Don’t Do This)
Do NOT mix “Tourist Stamps” with “Goshuin.” Train stations and tourist spots have rubber stamps (ink stamps) for fun. NEVER put those rubber stamps in your Goshuin-cho. The monks consider the book sacred. If they see a Hello Kitty train stamp in there, they might refuse to write in it. Keep them separate!
Ready to Start Your Collection?
Collecting Goshuin turns a regular sightseeing trip into a spiritual treasure hunt. Which design will be your favorite? The powerful dragon from Kyoto? The delicate cherry blossom from Tokyo?
Want to find the temples with the most rare and artistic Goshuin (like limited edition gold ink)? Join our Shrine & Temple Tour. Our guides are Goshuin collectors too. We know exactly where to go to fill your book with the best art in Japan.
