Japanese House Ornaments?

I've seen this in a few Japanese homes: large dollhouse sized ornamental homes and other objects placed on an alcove. I was wondering what the name of these houses or ornaments is. Sometimes a statue of Buddah is used. I'm looking for the specific name given to these houses (if there is one), and a general name for ornanments placed on alcoves. And if you can explain why they do this or why it is significant, even better,





Thanks!Japanese House Ornaments?
They are called Shinto household shrines or ';kamidana';. Here's a link with some information about the rituals and objects involved.





http://www.nihonbunka.com/shinto/shime.h鈥?/a>





The shrine is used to honor the Buddha and saints, assure good fortune for the household and memorialize the family's ancestors.

refinance