1.
temple or shrine seal; red-ink stamp of visitation
A calligraphic inscription with a red seal stamp given at Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines as proof of one's visit. Typically written by hand in ink with the temple or shrine name, the date, and the deity's name, accompanied by a vermillion seal.
この神社で御朱印をもらった。
I received a shrine seal stamp at this shrine.
御朱印帳を忘れてしまったので、紙でいただいた。
I forgot my seal stamp book, so I received it on a separate sheet of paper.
最近は御朱印集めが趣味の人が増えて、人気のある寺では長い列ができることもある。
Recently, more people have taken up collecting shrine and temple stamps as a hobby, and at popular temples there are sometimes long lines.
CULTURE:
Originally given as proof that a pilgrim had copied and offered a sutra at a temple, 御朱印 have become popular souvenirs for shrine and temple visitors. Each one is unique, featuring hand-brushed calligraphy and the distinctive red seal of the institution. Collecting them in a dedicated 御朱印帳 (stamp book) has become a widespread hobby.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 御朱印をもらう / いただく (to receive a seal stamp)
- 御朱印帳 (seal stamp book)
- 御朱印集め (seal stamp collecting)
- 限定御朱印 (limited-edition seal stamp)
NOTE:
The fee for a 御朱印 is typically 300-500 yen. It is considered rude to collect them purely as souvenirs without actually visiting the shrine or temple with respect.