A Shinto shrine is a place of worship in the Shinto religion, which is indigenous to Japan. These shrines are dedicated to various kami, or spirits, and serve as a space for rituals, offerings, and prayers. They often feature a distinctive entrance gate called a torii, which symbolizes the transition from the mundane to the sacred. Visitors to a Shinto shrine typically perform a purification ritual before entering, which may include washing hands and rinsing the mouth at a temizuya. Inside, you may find an altar where offerings such as food, sake, or flowers are presented to the kami, reflecting respect and gratitude.