Shinto Shrines (Jinja)

Shinto shrines, called jinja in Japanese, are sacred sites dedicated to kami—spiritual entities or gods in Shinto religion. They serve as places for worship, rituals, and festivals to honor and communicate with kami. Typically, shrines feature a torii gate marking the entrance, a main hall (honden) housing the kami’s spirit, and purification spaces. Visitors often conduct offerings, prayers, and purification rituals to seek blessings, health, or success. Shinto shrines are integral to Japan’s spiritual and cultural landscape, embodying reverence for nature, tradition, and community through their architecture and festivals.