Kyoto Juzu Prayer Beads Specialty Store, Ono Juzu Shop | Established Over 300 Years – Sales & Repair
Ono Juzu Shop
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Tel.075-221-2608
Kyoto Sect-Specific Juzu Prayer Beads
Juzu Prayer Beads Guide
For First-Time Visitors
What Are Juzu Prayer Beads?
Juzu, also known as juzu or nenju, are sacred Buddhist implements worn on the hands during prayer to help connect the heart with the Buddha. They are a familiar item carried at funerals and memorial services, and an essential item we should never forget.
At our shop, we offer a wide variety of Juzu bracelets as protective items, meant to be worn, kept in a bag, or carried in clothing as a familiar bracelet, so that they may become a source of comfort in daily life — and we carry them in a wide variety of types.
First-time visitors are always welcome — please feel free to stop by.
Basic Knowledge of Juzu Prayer Beads
To choose the right Juzu prayer beads, let's start by checking a few things.
Formal Juzu Prayer Beads
Simplified Juzu Prayer Beads
Nenju Prayer Bead Bracelet
Two Shapes Available
Juzu prayer beads are broadly divided into two types: formal (honshiki) and simplified (ryakushiki).
[Formal Juzu Prayer Beads]
These are the formal Juzu prayer beads prescribed by each Buddhist sect. They consist of 108 beads and are long enough to be doubled over and worn on the hand.
[Simplified Juzu Prayer Beads]
These are general-purpose Juzu prayer beads that can be used regardless of sect, made up of a single strand with fewer beads.
The Number of Beads Matches the 108 Earthly Desires
This varies somewhat by Buddhist sect, but formally a Juzu is made up of 108 beads. As with the New Year's Eve bell (joya no kane), this is said to have the virtue of dispelling the 108 earthly desires.
In recent years, simplified Juzu with the bead count adjusted to the finished size have also become more common, so please feel free to consult with us.
Materials
We offer a wide range of materials, including natural wood and fragrant wood, as well as natural stone, ivory, coral, and pearl. At our shop, ebony is especially popular among men, while women tend to prefer pale-colored pearls and crystal.
Kyoto Juzu Prayer Beads Repair
How to Use Juzu Prayer Beads Correctly
How to Hold Juzu Prayer Beads Correctly
As a general rule, Juzu prayer beads are worn on the left hand, with the right hand brought gently alongside. When walking, hold them in your left hand. For a formal Juzu, position the parent bead (the slightly larger bead above the tassel) at the top and loop it over your left arm; the tassel may hang on either the inside or outside of the arm. For a simplified Juzu, drape it between the left thumb and index finger so that the tassel hangs below the little finger.
Juzu Prayer Beads Use in Japan
Memorial Services and Funerals
Juzu prayer beads are used at formal Buddhist ceremonies such as memorial services and funerals. Attendees hold their Juzu while pressing their palms together in prayer.
Everyday Prayer
Juzu prayer beads are also used in daily prayer and recitation of the nembutsu. Holding a Juzu while praying before a home Buddhist altar or at a temple helps settle the mind.
Seasonal Observances
Juzu prayer beads are also used when taking part in seasonal Buddhist observances such as New Year and Obon. Visitors bring their Juzu to temple events and offer prayers with them.
Kyoto Juzu Prayer Beads Repair
Juzu Prayer Beads Etiquette: What to Avoid
Juzu prayer beads play an important role in Japanese Buddhism. Please keep the following points in mind to handle them correctly.
1. Do Not Place Juzu Prayer Beads on the Floor or Ground
Juzu prayer beads are used in formal Buddhist ceremonies such as memorial services and funerals. When not in use, please keep them in a Juzu pouch or your pocket, or lay a handkerchief on a table and place the beads on top of it.
2. Do Not Treat Juzu Prayer Beads as a Toy
Wrapping Juzu prayer beads around your fingers, spinning them, or otherwise treating them as a toy is considered poor etiquette. Juzu are sacred Buddhist implements and should be handled with care.
3. Do Not Pull or Force Juzu Prayer Beads
Avoid handling your Juzu prayer beads roughly. Many are delicately made, and forcing them can cause damage. Please handle them gently and with care.
4. Store Your Juzu in a Juzu Pouch
When not in use, we recommend storing your Juzu in a dedicated Juzu pouch. A pouch helps protect it from dust, scratches, and damage, while also reflecting the Japanese custom of treating Juzu with care and respect. Proper storage will help preserve its beauty for many years.
5. Care for the Materials Properly
Juzu prayer beads are made from a variety of materials, including wood, natural stones, and silk tassels. Exposure to moisture may cause discoloration or deterioration over time. If your Juzu becomes wet from rain or perspiration, gently wipe it with a soft cloth and allow it to dry in a well-ventilated place. Avoid storing it in excessively humid environments.
6. Appreciate the Meaning and Tradition of Juzu
Juzu has long been used in Buddhist prayer and memorial services. Today, some people also choose Juzu as keepsakes and personal items, but understanding their cultural and spiritual significance can help deepen appreciation for their purpose. In Japan, Juzu have been treasured for generations as tools that accompany prayer and reflection.