1.
approach to a shrine or temple
The road or path leading from the entrance to a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple. Often lined with shops, torii gates, or stone lanterns.
参道を歩く。
Walk along the approach to the shrine.
参道の両側にお土産屋が並んでいる。
Souvenir shops line both sides of the approach.
初詣の時期は参道が参拝客で埋め尽くされる。
During the New Year's visit season, the approach is packed with worshippers.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 参道を歩く (walk along the approach)
- 参道の入口 (entrance to the approach)
- 表参道 (main approach — also a famous area in Tokyo)
USAGE NOTES:
表参道 originally referred to the main approach to Meiji Shrine, but is now widely known as a fashionable neighborhood in Tokyo. Many famous shrines and temples have long 参道 with shops and food stalls, making them popular tourist attractions. The approach typically starts at a 鳥居 (torii gate) for shrines or a 山門 (temple gate) for temples.