Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine, located in Tokyo, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shōken.
Meiji Shrine, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is a venerable Shinto sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, embodying Japan’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
Established in 1920, this shrine commemorates the emperor’s role in the Meiji Restoration, which saw the modernization of Japan.
Encircled by a lush forest of over 100,000 trees, the shrine is a testament to traditional Japanese architecture and culture, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling city, while celebrating significant festivals and rituals that draw visitors and locals alike.
The Meiji Shrine is open from dawn to dusk. This indicates that the precise hours vary from 05:00 to 06:40 for opening hours to 16:00 to 18:30 for closing.
Meiji Shrine Travel Essentials
Places near Meiji Shrine
Is the Meiji Shrine worth visiting?
Visiting Meiji Shrine offers a unique juxtaposition of tranquility and cultural immersion within Tokyo’s dynamic metropolis. It’s a place where the spiritual and natural world blend seamlessly, providing a serene oasis that contrasts sharply with the urban landscape.
The shrine’s vast grounds, historical significance, and beautiful traditional ceremonies make it a must-visit for those looking to experience Japan’s rich cultural heritage and Shinto practices. Its accessibility, coupled with no entry fee, makes it an invaluable stop for travelers seeking to enrich their understanding of Japanese history and spirituality.
How to get to Meiji Shrine
To reach Meiji Shrine, the most convenient access is through Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, which is just a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can use the Tokyo Metro, exiting at Meiji-jingumae Station on the Chiyoda or Fukutoshin Lines.
From either station, well-signed paths lead you directly into the shrine’s verdant precincts. The shrine’s proximity to the bustling Harajuku district allows for an easy combination of cultural and modern shopping experiences, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse offerings of Tokyo.
Things to do in Meiji Shrine
Participate in a Traditional Shinto Ceremony
Experience the spiritual atmosphere by attending a Shinto ceremony. These ceremonies, which can include weddings, blessings, and seasonal festivals, offer a unique glimpse into Japanese culture and religious practices.
Write a Wish on an Ema
Purchase an ema (a small wooden plaque) at the shrine, write your wish or prayer on it, and hang it on the designated area with the hope that your wish will come true. It’s a personal and reflective activity that connects you to the traditions of the shrine.
Stroll through the Inner Garden (Gyoen)
Visit the Inner Garden, especially during the iris bloom in June. The garden charges a small entrance fee, but it’s worth it to see the beautiful flowers and the serene landscape, including the well-known Kiyomasa’s Well.
Attend the Grand Spring or Autumn Festivals
Plan your visit during the Grand Spring Festival (in late April to early May) or the Autumn Festival (in November). These festivals feature traditional performances, music, and activities that showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Visit the Treasure House
Explore the Treasure House to see personal belongings of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The exhibit includes robes, documents, and other historical artifacts that provide insight into the Meiji Era.
Enjoy Seasonal Blooms in the Outer Garden
The Outer Garden features a variety of trees and flowers that bloom in different seasons. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, the fresh greenery in summer, the colorful leaves in autumn, and the camellias in winter.
Participate in Hatsumode
If you’re visiting around New Year’s, participate in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the new year. It’s a major event where many people come to pray for good fortune and success for the coming year.
Attend a Noh Performance
The shrine occasionally hosts traditional Noh performances and other cultural events in its Noh Theater. Check the shrine’s event calendar for performance dates and experience one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious forms of theater.
Explore the Sake Barrels
Near the shrine’s entrance, you’ll find rows of decorative sake barrels called kazaridaru. These barrels are offerings from sake brewers around Japan to honor the deities enshrined at Meiji Jingu. It’s a colorful and photogenic spot that also educates visitors about the importance of sake in Shinto rituals and celebrations.
