Translation guide
A shrine maiden is a female attendant at a Shinto shrine, often involved in ritual dances, ceremonies, and daily tasks. The most common term is 巫女 (miko).
The standard term for a female attendant at a Shinto shrine, often young and unmarried, performing sacred dances and assisting priests.
The standard word for a shrine maiden. Refers to a woman who serves at a Shinto shrine, performing kagura dances and other rituals.
In anime, manga, and games, miko are often depicted with supernatural powers or as shrine maidens in modern settings.
The same word is used in fictional contexts. Often associated with exorcism, spiritual powers, or traditional outfits.
Historically, miko were believed to be shamans or oracles, sometimes associated with divination and spirit possession.
In historical contexts, miko could act as mediums between gods and people.
The word 巫女 is pronounced みこ (miko), not ふじょ. The reading ふじょ is rare and typically refers to a female shaman in a broader sense.
A 巫女 (miko) is a female shrine attendant, while a 神主 (かんぬし, kannushi) is a Shinto priest, usually male. Miko assist the priests and perform dances, but do not lead major ceremonies.
She works as a shrine maiden at the shrine.
巫女が神楽を舞った。
The shrine maiden performed a kagura dance.
An alternative kanji for miko, literally 'child of the gods'. Less common than 巫女 but still used.
神子が神事を執り行った。
The shrine maiden conducted the Shinto ritual.
The main character of that anime is dressed as a shrine maiden.
古代の巫女は神託を伝えた。
Ancient shrine maidens conveyed divine messages.
An archaic term for a female shaman or medium, often used in classical literature.
巫が神降ろしの儀式を行った。
The shamaness performed a ritual to summon the gods.