Meiji Jingu Shrine
A Sacred Forest Sanctuary Honoring Modern Japan's Transformation
Meiji Jingu was established in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914), who presided over Japan's transformation from feudal isolation to modern nation. Emperor Meiji's reign (1868-1912) saw the Meiji Restoration, which ended the samurai era and launched Japan's industrialization, modernization, and opening to the world. The shrine embodies respect for their role in shaping modern Japan.
The shrine's construction was a nationwide project involving over 100,000 volunteers from across Japan, each region donating labor and materials. The surrounding forest, now appearing ancient and natural, was entirely man-made - over 100,000 trees of 365 species were planted from all parts of Japan and the world. The forest was scientifically designed to become a self-sustaining ecosystem, a goal it achieved within decades.
The original buildings were destroyed during World War II air raids in 1945 but were reconstructed in 1958 using the same traditional techniques. Today, Meiji Jingu is Tokyo's most popular shrine for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year), attracting over 3 million visitors during the first three days of January. The shrine hosts traditional weddings almost daily, and its Spring and Autumn Grand Festivals feature ancient court music and dance performances.
Key Highlights
- Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken in 1920
- 70-hectare man-made forest with 100,000+ trees from across Japan
- Tokyo's most visited shrine with 3 million+ New Year visitors
- Original buildings reconstructed in 1958 after WWII destruction
- Treasure Museum houses personal belongings of Emperor and Empress
- Hosts 10,000+ traditional Shinto weddings annually
Access Information
Location
1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
- • Meiji-jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines)
- • Yoyogi Station (JR Yamanote Line, Toei Oedo Line)
Opening Hours
Shrine grounds: sunrise to sunset (approx 5:00-18:00, varies by season) | Inner Garden: Mar-Oct 9:00-16:30, Nov-Feb 9:00-16:00 (last entry 30 min before closing) | Treasure Museum: varies by exhibition
Admission Fee
Shrine grounds: Free | Inner Garden: ¥500 | Treasure Museum: ¥1,000
How to Get There
From Harajuku Station
Walk through south entrance gate
5 minutes
From Meiji-jingumae Station
Exit 2, walk through north entrance
5 minutes
From Shibuya
JR Yamanote Line one stop to Harajuku
5 minutes by train
From Shinjuku
JR Yamanote Line two stops to Harajuku
5 minutes by train
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Forest Walk to Main Shrine
The 10-minute walk from the entrance torii gate through the forest is an essential part of the experience. The gravel path and towering trees create a transition from urban Tokyo to sacred space. Walk mindfully and observe the changing atmosphere.
Giant Torii Gate Photo Spot
The massive entrance torii gate, made from 1,500-year-old Taiwanese cypress, is one of Japan's largest wooden torii. Early morning offers the best photos without crowds. The gate marks the boundary between secular and sacred.
Proper Shrine Etiquette
Bow upon passing through torii gates. Purify hands and mouth at the temizuya (water pavilion). At the main hall, bow twice, clap twice, pray silently, then bow once. Observe others if unsure. Photography inside the main worship hall is prohibited.
Inner Garden's Hidden Beauty
The paid Inner Garden (Gyoen) features a peaceful iris garden (best in June), forests, and a tea house. Far fewer tourists visit this area, offering tranquility and seasonal flowers. The path includes the Kiyomasa Well, considered a power spot.
Wedding Ceremonies Common
Traditional Shinto wedding processions occur almost daily, especially weekends. Observing from a respectful distance offers insight into Japanese wedding traditions. Brides wear white shiromuku kimono, grooms formal hakama.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning (opening time) offers peaceful atmosphere before crowds arrive. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Avoid New Year period (Jan 1-3) unless specifically wanting to experience hatsumode crowds.
Ema and Omamori
Purchase wooden ema plaques to write wishes, or omamori amulets for various purposes (health, success, relationships, etc.). These traditional shrine items make meaningful souvenirs and support shrine maintenance.
Nearby Areas to Explore
The shrine is adjacent to Harajuku's Takeshita Street, Omotesando shopping avenue, and Yoyogi Park. This juxtaposition of tranquil shrine and vibrant urban culture epitomizes Tokyo's contrasts.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Meiji Jingu?
Allow 1-2 hours for the main shrine visit including the walk through the forest. Add 30 minutes if visiting the Inner Garden (Gyoen) or treasure museum. Early morning visits are especially serene.
What's the best time to visit?
Early morning (opens at sunrise) offers peaceful atmosphere before crowds arrive. Sunset is also beautiful. New Year and Hatsumode period sees millions of visitors - avoid unless you want that experience.
Can I witness a Shinto wedding?
Yes, traditional weddings occur regularly, especially on weekends. You can respectfully observe from a distance. Photography of ceremonies requires permission. The processions are beautiful to witness.
What are the ema wooden plaques for?
Ema are for writing wishes and prayers. Buy one at the shrine (¥500-1000), write your wish, and hang it on designated racks. Many are in various languages. It's a meaningful souvenir.
Is the Inner Garden worth the fee?
The Inner Garden (¥500) features beautiful iris flowers in June, a historic well, and peaceful paths. Worth it for garden enthusiasts or during iris season. Skip if you're short on time.
Are there events or festivals?
Yes, major festivals include Spring and Autumn Grand Festivals, and various traditional ceremonies throughout the year. Check the calendar for Sumo exhibitions and traditional performances.
Can I buy omamori (amulets) here?
Yes, various omamori for health, success, love, and safety are available. They make meaningful gifts. Prices range from ¥500-2000. English explanations are usually available.
Why is the shrine in a forest?
The 170-acre forest was planted 100 years ago with 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. It's now a mature, self-sustaining forest creating a sacred atmosphere in urban Tokyo.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed in most areas but not inside shrine buildings. Be respectful during ceremonies. The torii gates and forest paths are particularly photogenic. No commercial photography without permission.
What's nearby to combine with my visit?
Harajuku and Takeshita Street for shopping, Yoyogi Park for relaxation, or Shibuya for dining and entertainment. The contrast between sacred shrine and bustling city is quintessentially Tokyo.
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