巫女 (Miko) are shrine maidens in Shinto shrines (not the same rank as priests, closer to altar boys). They sweep the shrine, do ceremonial dances, perform music, flank the priest at prayers, freshen the offerings, operate the fortune telling lottery (omikuji), sell votive tablets (ema), and in most modern shrines run the knickknack and good luck charms shop. Historically, they used to be mediums and oracles. They are often depicted wielding gohei.

This tag is for pictures where at least one character is wearing the traditional outfit of a miko, a red hakama and white haori.

See also:

• Hamaya (ceremonial arrow)
• Ofuda (Shinto talisman/charm)
• Shimenawa (Shinto braided rice rope)
• Nontraditional miko

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