Festari

Quote from The Minish Cap Festari figurine:

"A Forest Minish living in Minish Village. He speaks some human languages. He sees that Link is human with one look. He’s a bit of a human enthusiast."

Festari guards the entrance that will take you through to Deepwood Shrine. Speak with him and he will tell you to speak to the Minish Elder Gentari. Once done, he will allow you to pass through into Deepwood Shrine.