Basic Photography Etiquette and Precautions at Shrines and Temples Around Dogo Onsen

Basic Attitude and Mutual Understanding When Visiting Religious Facilities

In the surrounding area of Dogo Onsen, there are many historic shrines and temples, such as "Isaniwa Shrine," known for its vermilion-painted Hachiman-zukuri shrine building, "Ishite-ji," the 51st temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, and "Enman-ji," known for its unique musubibumi (folded paper letters).

These places are tourist destinations, but at the same time, they are sacred religious facilities where local people and worshippers offer their faith. When visitors take photographs, the basic rule is to walk through the precincts with a respectful attitude and be considerate so as not to disturb those who are worshipping.

Criteria for Photography in the Precincts and Inside the Shrine Buildings/Main Halls

Within the grounds of shrines and temples, the areas where photography is permitted vary depending on the facility. While outdoor precincts and gardens can often be photographed, it is common for photography to be prohibited inside the main halls and worship halls, as well as in the inner spaces where the deity or principal image is enshrined.

If "No Photography" signs or warning marks using illustrations are posted on-site, please be sure to follow those instructions. In places where you are unsure whether photography is allowed, paying attention to the surrounding guidance or deciding to refrain from photographing in the precincts is a way to prevent trouble.

Consideration for Other Worshippers, Shinto Priests, and Buddhist Monks Regarding Photography

Worshippers praying seriously, pilgrims performing the pilgrimage, and Shinto priests and Buddhist monks performing their daily duties are moving through the precincts. Please avoid pointing cameras or smartphones at these people without permission or taking photographs from a very close distance.

Especially when publishing photographs on social media or websites, sufficient consideration for the faces and privacy of other people who are captured in the background is necessary. To avoid identifying individuals, consideration is required, such as adjusting the angle of view or applying appropriate blurring.

Restrictions on the Use of Tripods, Monopods, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

In many places, the pathways in the precincts and approach paths of temples and shrines are narrow, and placing tripods or monopods for fixed photography becomes a factor that obstructs the passage of other worshippers. Depending on the congestion status and location, the use of tripods may be completely prohibited.

In addition, under Japanese aviation law and related regulations, the flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) involves both national rules and the decisions of each facility. Do not make a judgment on your own as to whether you can fly a drone, and confirm with each shrine/temple and related organizations in advance.

Advance Confirmation Procedures for Photography for Commercial Purposes or in Special Costumes

Photography involving models, photography or video shooting for commercial use, or location shooting wearing special cosplay costumes, etc., are considered uses that exceed the scope of general worship.

When performing such photography, please contact the shrine office or temple office of the corresponding shrine or temple in advance to confirm the necessity of required procedures. The handling may change between personal commemorative photography and photography involving bringing in equipment.

Ensuring Safety and Photography Etiquette During Seasonal Events and Festivals

During autumn festivals and annual events, the precincts and approach paths become very congested due to the operation of portable shrines and many worshippers. There is a risk of disrupting the progress of events or falling from stairs due to focusing too much on the camera in a crowd.

During festivals, quickly follow the guidance instructions of local staff, police officers, and the shrine side, and take photographs while maintaining a safe distance. It is important to make safety-first decisions according to the local situation.

Regarding the public bathhouses of Dogo Onsen, the official bathing manners clearly state, "Please do not take photographs in the changing rooms or bathrooms." Bathrooms are places that have clear rules separate from shrines and temples.

Note: The business hours, fees, and operation schedules of each facility may change. Please check the detail page and official information of each spot for the latest information.