Ema in Japan: What Are These Votive Plaques and How to Use Them?

If you've ever visited a Shinto shrine or a Buddhist temple in Japan, you may have noticed small wooden plaques hanging from racks or wooden frames. These are ema (絵馬), votive tablets on which visitors write their wishes and prayers. But where do they come from, how do you use them, and where can you find them in Japan?

What is an ema?

Ema are wooden plaques sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The word ema (絵馬) literally means “picture of a horse” (絵 - e = picture, 馬 - ma = horse). In ancient times, people would offer real horses to deities as a way to seek divine favor or express gratitude. Over time, this tradition evolved into the use of wooden tablets decorated with various illustrations.

Visitors write their prayers, wishes, or goals on these plaques and hang them on designated racks, hoping that the deities (kami in Shinto or Buddhist figures) will grant their requests.

What can you write on an ema?

People use ema to make wishes related to different aspects of life, such as:

• Success in exams and studies
• Prosperity and career advancement
• Love and relationships
• Health and family protection
• Safe travels
• Personal dreams and spiritual aspirations

There are no strict rules on how to write a wish. Some people keep it simple, like "I hope to pass my exams," while others write more detailed requests. It is common to include your name and sometimes the date to mark your visit.

How to use an ema?

Purchase an ema – Available at shrines and temples, they typically cost between 500 and 1,000 yen.

Write your wish – Use the provided pens or markers to write your prayer on the back of the plaque.

Hang the ema – Attach it to the designated rack at the shrine or temple. It is believed that the deities will read your wish.

Pray or express gratitude – Some people take a moment to pray or bow after hanging their ema.

Ema designs and their meanings

Ema come in many different designs, depending on the shrine or temple. Some common motifs include:

• Zodiac animals – Related to astrology and Buddhist traditions.
• Shinto deities and symbols – Such as torii gates or representations of kami.
• Hearts and couples – Common at shrines focused on love and marriage.
• Dragons, foxes, cranes… – Sacred animals symbolizing strength, wisdom, or longevity.

Where to find ema in Japan?

Ema are available at most shrines and temples, but some locations are especially famous for their votive plaques:

• Meiji Shrine (Tokyo) – A popular place for prayers for prosperity and happiness.
• Yushima Tenmangu (Tokyo) – Famous among students seeking academic success.
• Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto) – Known for its thousands of torii gates and ema shaped like foxes (kitsune).
• Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto) – A temple offering ema focused on love and general good fortune.
• Osaka Tenmangu (Osaka) – A shrine frequented by students and professionals wishing for success in exams and careers.

Ema are more than just souvenirs; they are a way to engage with Japan’s spiritual traditions and take part in a centuries-old practice. Whether you're seeking success, love, or protection, writing a wish on an ema and hanging it at a shrine is a meaningful experience that connects you to Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

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