📍 Should you keep Omikuji or leave it at a shrine?
Find out the best places to store it for good luck.
Learn when and how to replace an old Omikuji.
Discover the respectful way to dispose of Omikuji.
Should You Keep Omikuji? Best Storage & Disposal Practices
(おみくじは持ち帰るべき？ その目的と正しい保管方法を知る)
Can You Take Omikuji Home?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to take Omikuji home, especially if you receive a good fortune. Many people keep it as a lucky charm or a reminder of their spiritual guidance. However, some prefer to leave it at the shrine, particularly if it predicts bad luck.
Reasons Why People Keep Their Omikuji
- To use it as a lucky charm for continued good fortune.
- To reflect on its advice and apply it in daily life.
- As a spiritual reminder of their shrine visit.
- To observe if the predictions come true.
Where to Store Omikuji at Home for Good Luck
If you decide to keep your Omikuji at home, place it in an area associated with spiritual protection and positive energy:
- Inside a wallet or purse – Believed to attract financial luck.
- On a home altar or shrine (Kamidana, 神棚) – A sacred place for blessings.
- On a desk or workspace – A reminder to work towards one’s goals.
- Near the entrance of your home – To invite positive energy inside.
How to Keep Omikuji in Good Condition
To preserve the spiritual significance of your Omikuji:
- Avoid crumpling or tearing it.
- Store it in a small envelope or protective cover.
- Keep it in a dry place away from dirt and moisture.
When and How to Dispose of Omikuji Properly
Does Omikuji Have an Expiration Date?
Omikuji does not have an official expiration date, but many people choose to replace it at the beginning of the year or after significant life events.
How to Dispose of Omikuji Respectfully
If you decide to discard your Omikuji:
- Return it to the shrine where you received it.
- Tie it to the designated rack at the shrine.
- Burn it as part of a purification ritual.
- Do not throw it away carelessly.
Should You Get a New Omikuji Every Year?
- Many people draw a new Omikuji at the start of the year.
- Some keep their Omikuji until they feel their luck has changed.
- If you move homes or start a new job, it may be a good time to get a new Omikuji.
The Spiritual Significance of Returning Omikuji to a Shrine
( Returning an old Omikuji to a shrine represents:
- Letting go of past luck and welcoming new blessings.
- Expressing gratitude for spiritual guidance received.
- Aligning with Japanese purification rituals.
Conclusion: How to Keep Omikuji & Maintain Its Spiritual Value
- Omikuji can be kept at home or tied at a shrine.
- Many people keep Omikuji for spiritual guidance.
- The best places to store Omikuji include wallets, desks, and altars.
- Keeping Omikuji properly preserves its spiritual value.
- Omikuji does not have a strict expiration date.
- Many people replace their Omikuji at the beginning of the year.
- Omikuji can be returned to the shrine for proper disposal.
- Burning Omikuji is a traditional purification method.
- Disposing of Omikuji respectfully aligns with spiritual beliefs.
- Omikuji should not be thrown away carelessly.
