A Shinto shrine is a place of worship in the Shinto religion, which is indigenous to Japan. These shrines are dedicated to kami, or spirits, and serve as a space for rituals, offerings, and prayers. They often feature a distinctive entrance gate called a torii, which marks the transition from the mundane to the sacred. Inside a Shinto shrine, visitors may find an altar where offerings such as rice, salt, and sake are made to honor the kami. Shrines can vary in size and design, ranging from simple structures to elaborate complexes, and are often surrounded by natural beauty, reflecting the Shinto belief in the sacredness of nature.