Do Japanese shrines and temples really have different “attributes”?
image source：Copyright ©神社属性歩く会 All Rights Reserved.
Did you know? In Japan, even shrines and temples are believed to have their own “attributes”! This concept is called “Kenki attributes (けんき),” which are divided into five main types: Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Sky. It is said that every person also has their own attribute. Visiting a shrine or energy spot that matches your attribute can make you feel especially relaxed, at ease, and even lucky, but visiting a place with a conflicting attribute may feel strange or uncomfortable. Isn’t that kind of magical?
A super popular Japanese “attribute quiz” website even recommends energy spots that are perfect for you!
image source：Copyright ©神社属性歩く会 All Rights Reserved.
Now, on the attribute quiz website, you only need to enter your birth date + blood type to immediately find out which attribute you belong to! Even better, the results will also provide a list of shrines and spots best suited for your attribute!
image source：Copyright ©神社属性歩く会 All Rights Reserved.
It turns out that Tokyo Daijingu, Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple, Shimogamo Shrine, Seimei Shrine, Hiroshima Itsukushima Shrine, and Fukuoka Dazaifu Tenmangu are all “Water attribute” energy spots! Some overseas spots are also introduced, it’s really fun!
Next time you plan a trip to Japan, you might want to check it out. Visiting energy spots that match your attribute in person could really give you a unique experience!
What are “energy spots”?
“Energy spots,” also called magnetic or energy fields by some, are places with special energy that cannot be seen with the naked eye but are believed to exist. These spots are usually found in shrines, temples, and natural landscapes (forests, waterfalls, lakes, etc.). Whether they truly have effects is subjective, but many people report feeling calmer, less stressed, and more emotionally stable.
Compatibility table of the five main attributes
| Your attribute | Compatible attributes | Incompatible attributes |
|
Sky |
Sky, Water, Fire | Earth, Wind |
| Earth | Earth, Fire, Wind | Water, Sky |
| Water | Water, Wind, Sky | Fire, Earth |
| Fire | Fire, Sky, Earth | Wind, Water |
| Wind | Wind, Earth, Water | Sky, Fire |
Different attributes have “compatible” and “incompatible” relationships. You can also take the quiz with friends to see how accurate it is. It’s a fun little topic before your trip!
