Ema is a traditional Japanese custom of writing one’s wishes and prayers on a small wooden board and dedicating it to a shrine. Originally, it began with the dedication of an actual horse, but now boards with pictures of horses or other auspicious figures are used for symbolic purposes.
How to use an Ema
On the ema, people write their wishes for health, family happiness, romantic fulfillment, success in exams, and many other things. After completing the writing, the ema is hung and dedicated at a designated place in the shrine. This is believed to deliver the wishes to the gods and have them come true.
Types and Designs of Ema
There are various designs of ema associated with the deities of the shrine and the region. They range from traditional horse paintings to seasonal flowers, animals, and cartoon characters. Collecting different ema for each shrine you visit is one of the pleasures of traveling.
Cultural Significance of Ema
Ema is a means of communicating with the gods by giving form to personal wishes. Through ema, people can also share their wishes with family and friends and strengthen their bonds. Ema symbolizes the richness of the Japanese people’s spirit and their culture of cherishing wishes.
Experiences through Ema
Dedicating an ema at a shrine is more than just a tourist activity. The act of writing down one’s wishes provides an opportunity for reflection and self-expression, and allows one to have time to quietly make a wish in the sacred atmosphere of the shrine.
We hope that this text will help you understand the significance and appeal of dedicating an ema at a Japanese shrine and encourage you to experience it for yourself. By making a wish on an ema, you will be able to experience Japanese culture and add new colors to your travel memories.
