A kamidana is a small altar commonly found in Japanese homes, where family members pay their respects and pray to the Shinto deities (kami). Setting up a kamidana correctly is crucial to maintain positive energy and create a sacred space within your home. In this article, we will outline 12 steps to help you set up your kamidana.

1. Choose an appropriate location: Find a clean, quiet, and well-lit area that is above eye level. Avoid placing the kamidana near the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom to prevent disrespectful energy.

2. Purchase a kamidana shelf: You can find them online or at Japanese specialty stores. Ensure that the shelf is made of natural materials like wood and has enough space for all necessary items.

3. Cleanse the area: Always keep the area around your kamidana clean. Before setting it up, purify the space by sweeping, dusting, and removing any clutter.

4. Assemble the kamidana: Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to set up your shelf correctly.

5. Place an ofuda: An ofuda is a sacred paper charm that represents the deity being worshiped. You can purchase an ofuda from a Shinto shrine or online. It should be placed within the inner-most part of the kamidana shelf.

6. Set up offerings: A pair of white porcelain dishes for offerings like rice and salt should be placed on both sides of the ofuda, a bottle of sake should be kept on its left side, while a glass cup filled with water should be placed on its right side.

7. Include other accessories: Various Shinto accessories like shimenawa (a sacred rope), shide (zigzag paper strip), and an evergreen branch can be added to enhance your kamidana’s spiritual connection.

8. Set up a tamaya: A tamaya is a small ancestral tablet that may be added to your kamidana space. It is a tribute to departed family members and is placed towards the back, either on the right or left side.

9. Maintain daily rituals: Practice daily rituals like offering fresh water, greeting the kami by bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more during your visits. Additionally, light candles or incense to create a pleasant atmosphere.

10. Keep the kamidana clean: Regularly dust and clean the area around the kamidana to maintain positive energy.

11. Replace offerings: Change water daily, and replace rice and salt every few days or at least once a week. Replace sake as needed, usually about once a month.

12. Renew the ofuda annually: The ofuda should be replaced every year, while the old one should be properly disposed of in a respectful manner by returning it to a Shinto shrine or burning it in a ceremony called “ofuda yaki.”

By following these 12 steps, you can create and maintain a spiritually uplifting space in your home to honor and connect with the Shinto deities.