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Omamori and Ofuda|How to Keep Japanese Amulets and When to Return Them

Omamori (amulets) and ofuda (talismans) from shrines and temples carry the protection of the deities and Buddhas. Many people wonder how long to keep them and how to return them, so here are the basics.

Omamori vs. ofuda

An omamori is a small pouch containing a blessed charm. You carry it with you so that its protection is always close.

An ofuda is a paper or wooden talisman you keep at home, usually on a household altar (kamidana), to protect the family and home. At shrines, people say they “receive” these items rather than “buy” them.

How to carry an omamori

Keep it in your bag or wallet, or wear it. What matters is keeping it close to you.
Please do not open the pouch. It is said that looking inside makes the blessing fade.
Having several is fine. There is no belief that the deities will quarrel — just treat each one with care.

How to keep an ofuda

An ofuda is traditionally placed on a kamidana. If you do not have one, put it in a bright, clean place above eye level, such as on top of a shelf. Facing it south or east is considered best.

Return it after about a year

It is customary to replace amulets and talismans after about a year. Many people receive new ones during their first shrine visit of the New Year and return the old ones at the same time.

Returned items go into a box or booth called the kosatsu-osamesho. They are later burned respectfully in a ritual called otakiage. In some regions this is done at bonfire festivals in January (dondo-yaki).

Tips for returning

Ideally, return it to the shrine or temple where you received it. If that is too far, many shrines and temples near you will also accept it.
Return shrine amulets to a shrine and temple amulets to a temple.
Some shrines and temples accept returns by mail. Check their official information first.
If your wish came true, visit to say thank you and return the amulet with gratitude.

Amulets from your trip to Japan

An omamori from your trip is treated the same way. Carry it for about a year; if you cannot return it to Japan, keep it with care in a clean place, or return it if you visit again. An omamori is a travel memory and also a sign of your connection with the deities and Buddhas of that place.

After your visit, try today’s omikuji fortune

Draw today’s omikuji

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