Ema Plaques in Japan: Writing Wishes and Connecting with the Divine
More Japanese Culture
What would you wish for if you could send your hopes directly to the gods?
In Japan, that opportunity comes in the form of a small wooden plaque called an ema. Found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples throughout the country, these humble votive tablets allow visitors to write their dreams—whether for love, success, health, or happiness—and offer them to the divine.
More than a tradition, ema are a powerful symbol of spiritual connection and personal intention. Whether you're visiting during New Year’s hatsumode, preparing for a big life event, or simply exploring Japan’s sacred spaces, writing an ema is a quiet but meaningful moment—a shared gesture of hope under the watchful gaze of the gods.
What Is an Ema Plaque?
An ema (絵馬), literally meaning “picture horse,” is a wooden votive tablet on which people write personal wishes or messages of gratitude. Once written, the ema is hung on a special rack within shrine or temple grounds, with the belief that the wish will be received by the gods or Buddhas.
Common wishes include:
- Academic achievements: entrance exams, certifications, or graduation
- Romantic relationships: love, marriage, or healing heartbreak
- Business prosperity: financial success, growth, or good partnerships
- Job hunting: landing a desired job, passing interviews, or career stability
Visitors can find ema plaques for sale at almost all shrines and temples, typically near the main worship hall.
Designs and Symbolism of Ema
Ema designs vary widely depending on the location and the deity worshipped. While traditional ema often feature images of horses, modern designs can depict:
- Brushes or books for students
- Hearts, cranes, or rabbits for love and fertility
- Zodiac animals based on the Chinese calendar
- Gods or spiritual motifs associated with the shrine
In recent years, cute or anime-themed ema have gained popularity, especially among young people and international visitors. This diversity reflects how ema continue to evolve with society while preserving their spiritual role.
Historical Origins of Ema
The practice of offering ema dates back over 1,000 years. In ancient Japan, live horses were considered sacred offerings to the gods. As this became impractical, people began dedicating wooden tablets with horse illustrations instead—giving rise to the term “ema”.
By the Heian period (794–1185), the offering of ema became a widespread practice among both aristocrats and commoners. Over time, the imagery and purpose of ema expanded, but the essence remained the same: to deliver one’s heartfelt wishes to the divine.
How to Use an Ema at a Shrine or Temple
Here’s a simple guide for using an ema plaque during your visit to a shrine or temple:
- Purchase an ema: Most ema are sold for a small donation (typically 300–700 yen).
- Write your wish: Use a pen or brush to write your message on the blank side.
- Hang the ema: Place the plaque on the designated rack or wall near the shrine.
- Offer a prayer: Many people bow or clap before offering their wish to the deity.
Some shrines hold special ritual burning ceremonies where collected ema are respectfully burned, symbolically delivering the wishes to the spiritual realm.
Ema in Japanese Culture and Modern Society
Ema are more than a religious practice—they are a window into Japanese culture, combining art, faith, and community. Each ema represents a personal story, and when viewed together, they form a collective tapestry of human hope.
Today, ema remain especially popular during:
- New Year’s visits
- School entrance exams
- Weddings and childbirth
- Festivals and local events
Some shrines even offer online ema services, allowing users to submit their wishes digitally—a modern adaptation of a centuries-old tradition.
Why You Should Try Ema in Japan
If you're visiting Japan, dedicating an ema plaque is a memorable and meaningful experience. It offers a quiet moment of mindfulness and personal reflection. Whether you're seeking good fortune or simply curious about Japanese spirituality, writing your wish on an ema is a beautiful way to connect with the culture.