What is shinto structure that houses kami?

Shinto structure that houses kami is known as a shinto shrine, or jinja. These shrines are typically small structures made of wood and have a distinct architectural style featuring a steeply pitched roof with curved eaves.

The layout of a shinto shrine typically includes a main hall where the kami is housed, along with smaller auxiliary buildings such as purification halls and offering halls. Visitors approach the shrine through a Torii gate, which symbolizes the transition from the mundane world to the sacred space of the shrine.

Inside the main hall, there is a sacred object or symbol that represents the kami, such as a mirror or a statue. Visitors can make offerings of water, rice, or sake to the kami and may also pray for blessings or guidance.

Shinto shrines are typically located in natural settings, such as forests or mountains, as these locations are considered to be particularly sacred and spiritually powerful. Many important shinto shrines throughout Japan are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.