noun
worshipper; visitor to a shrine or temple; pilgrim
Refers to a person who visits a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple for worship, prayer, or sightseeing. Often used in contexts like New Year's visits (初詣) or temple/shrine tourism.
正月には多くの参拝者が神社を訪れる。
Many worshippers visit the shrine during the New Year.
そのお寺は参拝者でにぎわっていた。
The temple was bustling with visitors.
観光客 is a general tourist, while 参拝者 specifically visits a religious site, though the line can blur at famous temples.
Compound of 参拝 (worship, visit to a shrine/temple) and 者 (person).