noun
official visit to a shrine or temple
Used for formal, often state or organizational, visits to religious sites, especially in political or ceremonial contexts.
首相の靖国神社への公式参拝は国内外で議論を呼んだ。
The prime minister's official visit to Yasukuni Shrine sparked debate both at home and abroad.
参拝 is a general visit to a shrine or temple for worship, while 公式参拝 specifically refers to an official, often politically significant, visit.
Compound of 公式 (official) and 参拝 (shrine/temple visit).