1. Introduction

SpiritualAway ("we," "the Project") respects the personal data of every user and complies with all applicable laws to protect that data. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, and safeguard information obtained through our website (spiritualaway.jp) and our mobile application.

2. Information We Collect

We collect the following information only when you voluntarily provide it.

• Name, email address, and inquiry content submitted via the contact form
• Email address provided when pre-registering for the upcoming app
• Anonymized access logs, cookies, and browser information collected during your visit
• Photos taken with your device camera within the app's "Pilgrim Journal" feature — these are stored only on your device and are never transmitted to our servers
• Approximate location (city/region level), only when you grant permission and use the "shrines near me" feature — used in real time and not stored

3. Purposes of Use

Information collected is used only for the following purposes.

• Responding to your inquiries
• Notifying you of the app launch (one-time announcement only)
• Anonymous analytics for site and app improvement
• Compliance with applicable laws

4. Disclosure to Third Parties

We do not share your personal information with third parties without your consent, except as required by law.

We use the following external services. Their respective privacy policies may apply.

• Contact form processing: Formspree (United States)
• Web analytics: Google Analytics 4 (Google LLC), Microsoft Clarity (Microsoft Corporation)
• App distribution: Apple App Store (Apple Inc.) and Google Play (Google LLC)
• Affiliate link tracking: Booking.com, Agoda, Klook, Viator, GetYourGuide, Amazon Associates, Rakuten Affiliate, ValueCommerce, and similar programs

5. Cookies

This website uses cookies to improve service quality. You may decline cookies through your browser settings. Some features may not function correctly without cookies.

When you click an affiliate link on this site (marked with the rel="sponsored" attribute), the destination merchant (Booking.com, Agoda, Klook, Viator, GetYourGuide, Amazon, Rakuten, etc.) may set tracking cookies. These cookies are used to attribute bookings and purchases and do not contain personally identifying information. See our Affiliate Disclosure and each merchant's own privacy policy for details.

6. Mobile App — Permissions and Data Handling

The Spiritualaway mobile app uses the following device permissions only with your explicit consent.

• Camera — to photograph goshuin (shrine seals) for the personal Pilgrim Journal. Photos are stored on your device only.
• Location — to display shrines near you. Used in real time only and not retained.
• Photo Library — only when you choose to import an existing image. No silent access.
• Notifications — only if you opt in. Used for app launch announcements only.

The app does not collect personal identifiers (name, email, phone number) by default. No advertising IDs are collected. No third-party advertising SDKs are embedded.

7. Data Retention and Security

We implement appropriate safeguards to prevent unauthorized access, loss, or alteration of personal data. Personal information no longer required will be promptly deleted or destroyed.

8. Your Rights

You have the right to access, correct, delete, or stop the use of your personal information. To exercise these rights, please contact us through the contact form.

9. Children

This service is not directed to children under the age of 13. If you are under 16, please obtain consent from a parent or guardian before submitting any personal information.

10. International Users (GDPR / CCPA)

For users in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or California, additional rights may apply under the GDPR or CCPA, including the right to data portability and the right to object to processing. Please contact us to exercise these rights.

11. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated in response to changes in law or services, without prior notice. Material changes will be announced on the website and within the app.

12. Contact

For privacy-related inquiries, please reach out via the contact form.