Priests & Staff
Miko
A female attendant at a shrine who assists with rituals, performs sacred dances, and serves at the amulet counter.
Miko are women who serve at shrines assisting priests, performing kagura dances, and staffing the amulet counter. In ancient times, miko served as shamans who channeled the voices of the gods through trance states — some scholars consider the legendary Queen Himiko part of this tradition.
Modern miko wear the distinctive white kosode jacket with red hakama trousers. While traditionally unmarried women, many shrines now recruit part-time miko for the busy New Year season. The graceful kagura dances performed by miko, using bells and fans refined through years of training, are among the most beautiful expressions of Shinto worship. Kasuga Taisha's miko kagura and Itsukushima Shrine's bugaku dances are particularly acclaimed.
-
Gūji
The highest-ranking priest and chief administrator of a shrine.
-
Negi
A shrine priest ranking directly below the chief priest, assisting in rituals and daily operations.
-
Gon-negi
A junior priest who assists the negi, typically an entry-level position for newly ordained shrine staff.
-
Miko
A female attendant at a shrine who assists with rituals, performs sacred dances, and serves at the amulet counter.
-
Jūshoku
The chief priest and administrator of a Buddhist temple, responsible for all religious and operational affairs.
-
Oshō
An honorific title for a senior Buddhist monk qualified to teach and guide disciples.
-
Sōryo
A general term for ordained Buddhist monks and nuns who have renounced secular life for religious practice.
-
Ujiko
A local resident who belongs to and supports the community shrine as a member of its parish.
