Priests & Staff
Sōryo
A general term for ordained Buddhist monks and nuns who have renounced secular life for religious practice.
Sōryo is the general term for those who have taken Buddhist vows and devoted themselves to religious practice. The word derives from the Sanskrit "sangha" (community of practitioners), which originally referred to the monastic community rather than individuals.
A distinctive feature of Japanese Buddhism is that most sects permit monks to marry — a practice legalized by an 1872 government decree. This is unusual worldwide; in Theravāda Buddhist countries like Thailand and Myanmar, strict celibacy is maintained. Japanese Buddhist monastic culture has undergone a uniquely distinct evolution compared to its counterparts elsewhere in Asia.
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Gūji
The highest-ranking priest and chief administrator of a shrine.
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Negi
A shrine priest ranking directly below the chief priest, assisting in rituals and daily operations.
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Gon-negi
A junior priest who assists the negi, typically an entry-level position for newly ordained shrine staff.
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Miko
A female attendant at a shrine who assists with rituals, performs sacred dances, and serves at the amulet counter.
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Jūshoku
The chief priest and administrator of a Buddhist temple, responsible for all religious and operational affairs.
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Oshō
An honorific title for a senior Buddhist monk qualified to teach and guide disciples.
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Sōryo
A general term for ordained Buddhist monks and nuns who have renounced secular life for religious practice.
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Ujiko
A local resident who belongs to and supports the community shrine as a member of its parish.
