Japanese · Travel & Places
神社
jinja
Shinto shrine
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A place of worship in the Shinto religion. Characterized by torii gates, Japan has over 80,000 shrines across the country.
Example
初詣で神社に行きました。
I went to a shrine for the first visit of the new year.
Etymology
The term 神社 (jinja) consists of 神 (jin), meaning 'god,' and 社 (sha), meaning 'shrine' or 'company.' Its origins trace back to ancient Shinto practices, where shrines were erected to honor kami (spirits).
How & Where It’s Used
神社 is used in both formal and informal contexts, often in spoken language when discussing religious practices, festivals, or local customs in Japan.
Literary Heritage
多くの神社は、古事記や日本書紀の伝説に基づいています。