Omikuji for reading the future.

This is a small piece of divination paper, or sacred lottery slip, drawn at random and available for purchase at shrines (sometimes found in temples, but this is quite rare). An omikuji ("written fortune") is drawn at the beginning of the year to learn one's future fortune. If the prediction is bad, it can be tied to a tree to ward off bad luck. If it is good, it is kept as a lucky charm. In this case, it is often carried in one's wallet, although not everyone does.

All the different types of omens

• 大大吉 ( Daidaikichi ) : Very, very great luck → This is extremely rare and is an excellent omen.

• Daikichi : Very good luck → The best omen , everything should go very well.

• Good luck ( Kichi ) : Good luck → A good omen, favorable in most areas.

• 中吉 ( Chūkichi ) : Average chance → A positive sign, but more moderate.

• Small chance ( Shōkichi ) : A small success or improvement is possible.

• Suekichi ( Late Luck ) : Things will get better, but it will take time.

• 凶 ( Kyō ) : Bad luck → A bad omen, caution advised.

• 大凶 ( Daikyō ) : Very bad luck → The worst omen, one must be very careful in one's actions.

You can also buy an omamori (amulet) for good luck in temples.

How to do it?

You usually have to shake a wooden box containing numbered wands, then take the slip of paper with the same number as the wand you drew. If you go to a shrine during this time, you'll hear a lot of ringing: that's why 🙂.

A bit of history

Historically, this practice dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868), when lotteries were used to seek the gods' advice on important decisions.

We won't lie to you: it's difficult to read, even for Japanese speakers, because the vocabulary is intentionally somewhat mystical… Get help from a consultant! They will translate your omen and, hopefully, bring you good fortune!

Is this still relevant?

Nowadays, omikuji is a popular and fun way to get a glimpse into the coming year. Most people don't really believe in it anymore, but some Japanese take it very seriously. People draw their fortunes among friends, family, or even romantic partners. It can cover many areas: health, love, success, work…

There are many types of omikuji , from the simplest to the most surprising. Some even reveal themselves when the paper is soaked in water.

In summary, we strongly advise you to play along, New Year's or not!

To learn the difference between a temple and a shrine, read our article on the subject: What are the differences between Shintoism and Buddhism?