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 of use, the connection created between the Kami-sama and the item gradually fades. That is why it is best to replace them once a year.
To express your gratitude, please bring or mail these items back to the Shinto shrine after one year. 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.
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.
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 the 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 to Replace Last Year’s Ofuda]
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
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.
