If you’ve ever been to Japan, chances are you’ve spotted those eye-catching trinkets dangling from phones, bags, and taxi mirrors.
They’re what you call omamori and are not just for show.
The Japanese people believe they can attract good fortune and shield against bad luck.
This guide will cover everything you need about this pocket-sized Japanese charm.
Omamori is a Japanese good luck charm, believed to attract good fortune and shield against bad luck. Made of beautifully embroidered brocade fabric, it contains special prayers or inscriptions sealed inside. From good fortune to success in studies, there’s an omamori for every wish. Available at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, they typically cost between ¥300–¥1000 ($2–$7). Traditionally, they are kept for a year, but many keep them longer. It’s essential never to open or wash an omamori as they’re sacred, and doing so can release their blessings.
Adam Payne – Japan Insider Secrets
What Is an Omamori?
Omamori is a Japanese good luck charm.
It comes from the word “mamoru,” which means to protect.
The typical omamori is a small rectangular pouch of beautifully embroidered brocade fabric.
It contains special prayers or inscriptions written on paper, neatly sealed inside.
Most have a string so you can attach them to your items.
Apart from the traditional shape, some omamori look like tiny drawstring bags.
Others come in the shape of flowers, zodiac animals, and temple motifs.
Types of Omamori
Whatever you seek in life, there’s a perfect omamori charm for you.
Here’s a quick guide to the different kinds of omamori:
- Kaiun: Good fortune
- Kenko: Good health and long life
- Kachimamori: Success or achieving a desired goal
- En-musubi: Luck in finding love or protecting a romantic relationship
- Anzan: Easy pregnancy and safe childbirth
- Kana-anzen: Safety and well-being of your family
- Shiawase: Personal well-being and happiness
- Kotsu-anzen: Traffic safety and protection during trips
- Yaku-yoke: Warding off evil and bad luck
- Shobai-hanjou: Prosperity and success in business and financial matters
- Gakugyo-joju: Success in studies and academic endeavors
- Byoki-heyu: Quick recovery from an illness
Aside from your traditional ones, here are a few odd types:
- Chigibako: For women hoping to accumulate plenty of kimonos or find a good husband
- Petto omamori: Safety of pets
- Joho anzen kigan: Digital security
- Migawari: Scapegoat charm
- Kumajo: Safety from bears during hiking trips or camping
Where Should You Keep Yours?
The general rule is to keep your lucky charm close to you and let its positive energy surround you.
Most come with a strap to easily attach to your bag, wallet, or keys.
Some even make cool phone charms.
For particular omamori, like those for a blissful marriage or safe childbirth, it’s best to tuck them under your bed or pillow.
Omamori, for travel safety, has a sticker or suction cup, perfect for your bike, scooter, or car.
You can even find credit card-sized money charms to slip into your pocket or wallet.
Where to Buy an Omamori
You can snag one at most Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples across Japan.
You can find these charms in small shops or office spaces on the temple grounds.
If you cannot visit, I recommend checking out the shrine’s website to ensure you get an authentic and blessed charm.
Also, keep your eyes peeled for those rare and exclusive charms at some shops during festivals.
For instance, limited-edition Yozakura kan-musubi bracelet charms are up for grabs at the Asagaya Shinmeigu shrine during the cherry blossom season.
How Much Is a Charm?
Omamori charms cost around ¥300–¥1000 apiece (roughly $2–$7).
You’ll likely get a discount if you buy them in two or more sets.
How Long Can You Keep an Omamori?
According to a belief, you should keep one for a year, after which it loses its spiritual power.
However, it’s fine if you want to hang on to it for longer
Many Japanese keep theirs for longer than a year, and some even pass them down within families as an heirloom.
Can You Discard an Omamori?
Of course, you can part ways with an omamori when the time is right, say, after recovering from an illness or passing an important exam.
The proper way to retire one is to return it to a shrine, preferably the same one you got it from.
A common tradition is to bring them in during the traditional New Year’s visit.
Many Shinto shrines purify and burn old ones during a ceremony, and they have special drop-off boxes or setups for collecting them.
You can hand that option over to a temple attendant if unavailable.
While you’re at it, you can pick up a new charm for a fresh start.
Don’t stress about it too much for those not in Japan.
In the US, you can mail your worn-out amulet to a Shinto shrine for proper disposal.
But here’s a big no-no: tossing an omamori in the trash bin.
These tiny charms are sacred, disrespecting the deities who bless them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It OK to Open an Omamori?
Cracking open an omamari is a colossal mistake.
Doing so means releasing all the blessings and protective energies contained within.
Is It OK to Gift Omamori?
Absolutely!
Gifting omamori is a beautiful gesture.
If the person is open to the idea and appreciates the cultural significance, it’s a meaningful way to wish them good fortune, protection, or success.
Is It OK to Have Multiple Omamori?
Sure thing!
You can have different ones for various aspects of your life, and they won’t cancel out each other.
You can keep charms from the same temple or mix and match from different locations.
Should You Wash a Dirty Omamori?
Never wash your soiled omamori; cleaning it will strip away its protective power.
Some wear and tear over time is expected, so don’t sweat it.
If it breaks or wears out, take it as a sign that it has fulfilled its mission, having absorbed any negative energy meant for you.
What Is the Difference Between a Shinto or Buddhist Omamori?
There’s little difference between a Shinto and a Buddhist one.
Aside from their origin, both feature a small prayer tucked inside a colorful fabric with the religious site’s stamp and a soft string.
Wrapping Up
So, don’t forget to pick up your omamori the next time you visit a shrine or temple.
They make excellent souvenirs, thoughtful gifts, or just an everyday companion, much like they are for many locals.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
And always remember, you have to sincerely ask the divine powers and thank them once your wishes come true.
