In explaining the Shinto shrine to a friend I felt pretty uninformed.

Could anyone shed some light on this?

Here is my take...

1. Baby is brought to shrine to celebrate within 30days of birth.  (fancy 
kimono is worn )
    The parents and Grand parents take the baby to the shrine and the 
priest/kannushi prays for them.

2.  The priest gives the baby a drum toy.

3.   The priest also gives them their first set of chopsticks.

Growing up they will return to the Shrine any time they like, and on...

May 5th childrens celebration day
Boys will celebrate at the Shrine on 3rd and 5th birthday.
Girls will go at age 7

People also go upon beginning elementary, middle school, high school and at 
the commencement of college.

Some people choose the shrine as a place for their wedding.

Also folks go there to pray about a job.

Also they will return just to enjoy the beauty and order.


And another thing ...Who does the Kannushi/preist pray to?
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