{"id":415,"date":"2022-03-09T15:59:09","date_gmt":"2022-03-09T06:59:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kyotreat.jp\/?p=415"},"modified":"2026-09-04T17:57:42","modified_gmt":"2026-09-04T08:57:42","slug":"the-post-415","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kyotreat.jp\/en\/post-415\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Cute Goshuin Albums to Find in Kyoto | A Comprehensive Guide from T\u014d-ji and Ginkaku-ji to Hidden-Gem Temples and Shrines"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Goshuin\" are stamps given as proof of a visit to a shrine or temple. In recent years, attention has been focused not only on the goshuin themselves but also on the designs of the \"goshuincho\" (stamp books) used to collect them. In Kyoto, there are numerous shrines and temples that offer a wide variety of original goshuincho featuring unique designs, such as images of samurai, quintessential Kyoto scenery, and animal motifs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, we\u2019ll introduce some charming goshuincho available in Kyoto, along with basic information about them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Important Notice<\/strong>: The designs, color options, and prices of goshuincho (temple and shrine stamp books) are generally subject to change or replacement at the discretion of the respective temples and shrines, depending on the season. The designs shown here are based on information available at the time of writing, and they may no longer be available or may have changed by the time of your visit. Please be sure to check the official websites or social media accounts of each temple and shrine for the latest information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Table of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u25a0What Are Goshuin and Goshuin Albums, Anyway?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a014 Recommended Goshuin Books in Kyoto<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a0Etiquette for Receiving Goshuin Stamps<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a0 Summary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a0What Are Goshuin and Goshuin Albums, Anyway?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is a \"0 red seal\"?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo: Photo AC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A goshuin is a stamped or handwritten certificate received as proof of a visit to a shrine or temple. It is believed to have originated as a certificate awarded upon the donation of a transcribed sutra, and today it is widely enjoyed by many people as a memento of their visit. The offering fee (hatsuh\u014dry\u014d or n\u014dky\u014dry\u014d) paid when receiving a goshuin varies by shrine or temple, but the general guideline is around 300 to 500 yen. In recent years, an increasing number of shrines and temples have switched to providing only pre-written goshuin (those written in advance on paper); therefore, if you prefer a handwritten goshuin, it\u2019s best to check the official website or other sources in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a red seal book?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Photo: Photo AC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It is generally considered proper etiquette to have your goshuin stamped in a dedicated \u201cgoshuincho\u201d (goshuin book). As it is considered a breach of etiquette to ask for a stamp in a notebook or notepad, be sure to bring a goshuincho with you. You can purchase them at bookstores, shrines, and temples; prices typically range from 1,000 to 2,500 yen, though some may cost more depending on the materials and craftsmanship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a014 Recommended Goshuin Books in Kyoto<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u25cbToji Temple<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo: KYOTREAT Editorial Department<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This temple is the only one where the ruins of Heian-ky\u014d still remain; its official name is \u201cKy\u014d\u014d Gokoku-ji.\u201d It is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The five-story pagoda towering over the temple grounds is the tallest surviving wooden pagoda in Japan and attracts many tourists. The temple offers goshuincho with a variety of designs, including autumn foliage, cherry blossoms (pink and red), yellow, and turtles; the designs available may vary depending on the season or time of year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n