How do I return old Shinto Items?

After one year, Shinto Items should be returned to our Shrine for Otakiage, the Bonfire ritual, to properly send the Shinto Items (Juyohin) back to Kami-sama.

If possible, return the Juyohin to the shrine from which they were obtained. However, we understand that this is not always feasible, so we also accept items from other shrines and temples for proper and respectful disposal.

Otakiage – Bonfire Ritual

Kami-sama dwell inside Juyohin (Shinto Items) that you receive from a Shinto Shrine.

We must express our gratitude for the Kami-sama’s daily support and assistance. After one year, the connection created between the Kami-sama and the item gradually fades. That is why it is best to replace them after one year. To express your gratitude, please bring or mail these items back to the Shinto Shrine after one year. Please wrap them carefully because they are still linked to Kami-sama.

During the bonfire ritual, the Shinto priest offers words of gratitude to the Kami-sama dwelling within the Juyohin, recites a Norito to invite the Kami-sama to return to their original shrine, and then burns the items while respectfully bidding farewell to the Kami-sama.

How do I properly return my Juyohin (Shinto items)?

Step 1: Carefully wrap the Juyohin while expressing appreciation for their blessings.
Note: As they are still connected to Kami-sama, please place them in an inner envelope or wrap them in bubble wrap (reused bubble wrap is acceptable).

For Ofuda; please refer to this page: How Do I Replace Last Year’s Ofuda in my Kamidana?

Step 2: Place the inner envelope or wrapped Juyohin into a box or a padded mailing envelope (such as one with built-in bubble wrap).

Step 3: Please include a note with your name inside the package. This is very important, as it allows us to identify who sent the items and ensure they are included in the Otakiage Ceremony.

Step 4: Be sure to request your Otakiage Ceremony and submit your $10.00 ceremony donation.
Please note that the $10.00 donation is per person submitting Juyohin, not per item.

Step 5: Mail the items to our mailing office:

Shinto Shrine of Shusse Inari in America
9854 National Blvd. #284
Los Angeles, CA 90034
USA

Be sure not to open, tear, damage, or dirty the Juyohin. They should be treated with great respect, as they are connected to Kami-sama.

You might also like:
Juyohin Glossary
List of our Juyohin (Shinto Items)
Otakiage – Returning old Shinto Items
How can I request Juyohin (Shinto Items)?