noun
main hall of a Shinto shrine; inner sanctuary
Refers to the central building where the deity is enshrined, distinct from the worship hall (拝殿).
参拝者は拝殿でお参りし、本殿は神職だけが入れる。
Worshippers pray at the worship hall; only priests may enter the main hall.
この神社の本殿は国宝に指定されている。
The main hall of this shrine is designated a national treasure.