miko

A miko, written 巫女 or 神子, is a shrine maiden or female priestess in Shinto, Japan. Traditionally they served at shrines under the supervision of kannushi (chief priests), performing rituals, dances, and other ceremonial tasks. Their duties ranged from sacred dances (kagura) and offerings to purification rites and assisting in divination. In many shrines, modern miko are mainly attendants who help priests, greet worshippers, and participate in festival preparations, sometimes performing dances or blessings during ceremonies.

Typical attire consists of a white kosode or kimono paired with red hakama, though shrine-specific variations exist. Miko are generally not ordained priests; instead they receive training at the shrine and work under priestly authority. Training covers Shinto etiquette, ritual procedures, and, for those who perform dances, kagura.

In contemporary Japan, many miko are young women who volunteer or work seasonally, especially during festivals and busy shrine periods. Some shrines hire paid miko, while others emphasize tradition and cultural heritage. The image of the miko is prominent in popular culture, where shrine maidens are often portrayed with magical or supernatural elements. Etymologically, 巫女 can be read as "shamanic woman" or "child of the kami," reflecting historical beliefs about the role as mediators between kami and people.