Priests & Staff
Gon-negi
A junior priest who assists the negi, typically an entry-level position for newly ordained shrine staff.
The gon-negi is a junior priest whose title prefix "gon" (権) means "provisional" or "deputy." Most new shrine staff begin their careers as gon-negi, gaining experience before advancing to negi. They handle a wide range of duties — from ritual assistance and prayer services to grounds maintenance.
A gon-negi's day starts before dawn with grounds cleaning, continues through daytime prayers and visitor services, and ends with evening closing procedures. In recent years, younger gon-negi have taken on social media outreach and event planning roles, serving as bridges between ancient tradition and contemporary communication.
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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.
