I visited the Sensoji Temple and the Asakusa Shrine twice to experience some Japanese traditions. These two religious places are located next to each other. During my first visit, I picked up an Omikuji (fortune paper) from Sensoji Temple. I also bought an Omamori (good luck charm) from Asakusa Shrine. The second time I went to the shrine was during Tsukimi (Moon Viewing Festival). This was when the shrine was decorated with many lanterns.
The tradition I learned about was Omikuji, which are fortune papers used to test your luck. To receive an Omikuji, you need to shake a metal box until a stick with a number drops out. Then, you open the drawer with the corresponding number and get your Omikuji slip to read. If it is a good fortune, you can take the fortune paper home. If it is not a good fortune, you can tie the paper onto the iron rods, which symbolizes leaving the bad luck there. I was lucky that day and got a good fortune.
I also learned about Omamori, which are lucky charms that bring protection and good fortune.
