Japan Traveler guide

When visiting a Japanese Shinto shrine, remember to behave calmly. It is a sign of disrespect to run around or speak loudly while in the vicinity. A purification fountain is always near the shrine where you can clean your hands and mouth (spit the water just beside the fountain), though this is not mandatory.  

In the offering hall, you can throw a coin in the wooden box .  If there is a gong nearby, you can use it to call the resident kami's attention. Bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, and bow again, and then silently say a short prayer.

Note that you can't visit Japanese shrines when you are sick, have an open would, or are mourning as these states are considered impure.