Discover Japanese Culture at Meiji Jingu – Tokyo’s Iconic Shinto Shrine
Located just a few minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station, Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine in the heart of Tokyo and a popular power spot that attracts many foreign tourists.
Meiji Jingu was built in 1920 to enshrine Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. After Emperor Meiji passed away in 1912, his tomb was built in Kyoto. However, it was decided that Tokyo also needed a place to honor him, which led to the creation of this relatively new shrine.
Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, developed from the belief that gods (kami) reside in all things. Shrines are sacred places where these gods are enshrined. Generally, shrines worship nature deities, but in some cases, such as Meiji Jingu, deified historical figures are honored.
In some countries or religions, people who do not follow the faith are prohibited or restricted from entering religious sites. However, Japan’s over 100,000 shrines are very open. Small shrines may serve as playgrounds for children or venues for weddings, blending seamlessly into people’s daily lives. Foreign tourists are, of course, welcome to visit shrines, make wishes, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Highlights of Meiji Jingu
Sacred Forest (Chinju no Mori)
The shrine grounds span approximately 700,000 square meters, with most of the area covered by a beautiful forest. Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves make it a must-see during those seasons. Before the shrine was built, this area was farmland and plains. During the construction of Meiji Jingu, it was planned to create a natural forest centered around broadleaf trees, which would take over 100 years to grow into its current form.
A total of 365 species and 120,000 trees donated from all over Japan, Taiwan, and the Korean Peninsula were planted. The forest was left to natural selection, allowing it to grow without human intervention. As of 2019, the forest contains 36,000 surviving trees, resembling a naturally formed woodland. Today, this lush greenery in central Tokyo is home to rare insects, animals, and birds.
The Great Torii Gate
The torii gate, a symbol of Shinto shrines, marks the boundary between the everyday world and the sacred realm. Beyond the torii lies the spiritual world of the gods. The second torii, located where the south and north paths of Meiji Jingu meet, is the largest wooden torii in Japan. It stands 12 meters tall, 17.1 meters wide, and weighs 13 tons. The current torii, made from a 1,500-year-old tree from Taiwan, replaced the original, which was damaged by lightning in 1966.
The Married Camphor Trees (Meoto Kusu)
Near the main hall, two large camphor trees stand side by side, known as the “Married Camphor Trees” (Meoto Kusu). Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, enshrined at Meiji Jingu, were known for their strong bond as a couple. These trees symbolize love and harmony, making them a popular power spot for blessings of marriage and relationships.
Omikuji (Sacred Messages)
Unlike many other shrines that offer fortune slips, Meiji Jingu provides omikuji featuring poems written by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. These poems offer advice and insights into life. For foreign visitors, English translations of the omikuji are available, making this a unique and meaningful experience.
Kiyomasa’s Well
Before Meiji Jingu was built, the part of the site was home to a residence owned by Kiyomasa Kato, a historical figure. The well he used remains today as “Kiyomasa’s Well” and continues to produce fresh spring water. This well is considered a power spot believed to cleanse people of negative energy.
Sake and Wine Barrels
The south path of Meiji Jingu is lined with numerous sake barrels donated by breweries from across Japan as offerings to the gods. Additionally, wine barrels from domestic and international regions are displayed, honoring Emperor Meiji, who was known to enjoy wine. These barrels are a favorite photo spot for many visitors.
Traditional Weddings
If you visit on a weekend, you may have the chance to see a traditional Japanese wedding. While Western-style weddings in dresses are common in Japan, most couples who marry at Meiji Jingu wear traditional Japanese Kimono. Guests often dress in traditional clothing as well. If you wish to take photos, be sure to ask for permission first.
Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu is located in the center of Tokyo, near Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Shibuya, making it a convenient stop on any sightseeing itinerary. However, as it is a religious site, please be mindful of the following etiquette:
- Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.
- Keep noise to a minimum.
- Do not sit on the ground.
- Refrain from leaning or sitting on wooden fences or structures.
- Do not hang from the torii gate.
- Do not take stones or other items from the shrine grounds.
It’s easy to accidentally lean on fences or sit where you shouldn’t, so observe the behavior of Japanese visitors to guide your actions. The shrine grounds are large, and the gravel paths can be challenging to walk on, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, like sneakers.
Annual Events at Meiji Jingu
Major Festivals:
- January 1: Saitan-sai – A New Year’s ceremony praying for prosperity and renewal.
- February 11: Kigen-sai – Commemorating Emperor Jinmu and the founding of Japan.
- February 17: Kinensai – Prayers for a bountiful harvest in the coming year.
- June 30 & December 31: Oharai – Purification rituals to cleanse sins and impurities.
- July 30: Meiji Tenno-sai – Honoring Emperor Meiji on the anniversary of his passing.
- November 1: Chinza Kinen-sai – Celebrating the anniversary of Meiji Jingu’s founding.
- November 3: Rei-sai – Marking Emperor Meiji’s birthday with grand ceremonies.
Event dates may vary depending on the year. Please be sure to check the website for confirmation.
https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/
Access Information for Meiji Jingu
Address: 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizono-cho, Shibuya, Tokyo
URL；https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/
South Path Access:
- JR Yamanote Line: Harajuku Station (Omotesando Exit)
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines: Meiji Jingu Mae Station (Exit 2)
North Path Access:
- Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line: Kitasando Station
- JR Yamanote and Chuo-Sobu Lines: Yoyogi Station
- Toei Oedo Line: Yoyogi Station
West Path Access:
- Odakyu Odawara Line: Sangubashi Station
