Omamori
(JDT Recommends)

Omamori are Japanese good luck amulets sold at various temples and shrines to bring good luck or ward off evil. The charms are dedicated to certain deities or figures in Buddhist and Shinto beliefs. Typically, these talismans are made with silk around paper or wood with letters of the temple or prayers written on the outside to bring good fortune. Omamori's (whether hand-made or commercially produced) go through a ritual in order to make them sacred and able to keep away bad spirits. Omamori are often created for general, well-wishing, and protection purposes, but there are some that are specialized and focus only on one thing. This includes: safety against car accidents to be placed in your vehicle, good luck in studies and education, prosperity in marriage, good luck with relationships, success in business, health and childbirth, or avoiding evil spirits.

The omamori are never opened, and usually returned after a year to be burned, as a way to thank the deity that protected the holder for that year. Nowadays, there are companies that will make omamori's of popular characters for children and adults to enjoy. These also make for great souvenirs of your travels when you return home. While some companies produce special character-themed Omamori, you can find at least one temple offering Anime-themed good luck charms. Kanda Myojin Shrine in Akihabara not only offers talismans featuring popular anime characters, they even have omamori meant to bring good luck to your electronic goods. If you can't decide between an anime-themed or Hello Kitty good luck charm and the traditional talismans, Kanda Myojin has the best of both worlds. With such a variety of choices, try to collect different omamori from temples you visit or find the perfect good luck charm with your favorite anime characters on the design for extra protection during the coming year.

Available at Japanese temples, shrines, and even vending machines in Akihabara, come get a memento of your Cherry Blossom Japan Tour or Anime Tour vacation with an omamori. Japan Deluxe Tours includes the best temples & shrines for you to pick up the perfect good luck charm.