Step into the spiritual heart of Tokyo with this small-group walking tour of Meiji Jingu Shrine. Nestled in a forest of 100,000 trees, this tranquil oasis offers more than just natural beauty—it’s a living symbol of Japan’s spiritual heritage. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll learn the meanings behind Shinto rituals, explore the Imperial Garden, and uncover stories that make Meiji Jingu one of Japan’s most revered places.
Highlights
- Learn authentic Shinto purification and prayer rituals
- Discover the sacred symbolism within Japan’s Imperial legacy
- Walk through a forest sanctuary planted with over 100,000 trees from across Japan
- Explore the peaceful Meiji Jingu Gyoen Garden (free ticket included)
- Enjoy a small group setting for a personalized experience with time to ask questions and reflect
Full Description
Tokyo may be a bustling metropolis, but within it lies a deeply spiritual world. On this immersive walking tour, you’ll be guided through Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)—dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken—while uncovering the layers of tradition, ritual, and symbolism that define Japan’s indigenous religion: Shinto.
The tour begins at Starbucks With Harajuku, just steps from the shrine’s entrance. From there, your guide will lead you through the sacred forest, where towering trees silence the city noise and mark the threshold between the modern world and sacred ground.
Pause at Japan’s largest wooden torii gate, learn why visitors bow before passing through, and discover the deeper significance of shrine etiquette. You’ll practice proper purification rituals at the chozuya (water basin), learn how to offer prayers respectfully, and gain insight into the spiritual role Emperor Meiji plays in modern Japanese history.
The tour also includes a guided visit to the serene Meiji Jingu Gyoen (Imperial Garden)—a quiet retreat with a koi pond, iris garden, and traditional teahouse, typically missed by casual visitors.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning guest to Tokyo, this tour offers a meaningful and memorable connection to Japan’s cultural and spiritual roots.
Itinerary (Approx. 1.5–2 hours)
- Meeting point: Starbucks Coffee – With Harajuku
- Meiji Jingu Gyoen Garden – 30-minute guided exploration
- Meiji Shrine – 60-minute cultural and spiritual walking tour
- Return to Starbucks (or continue exploring independently)
Pricing
From ¥5,000 per person
Includes
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Entry to Meiji Shrine and Meiji Shrine Imperial Garden
- Photos taken during the tour
- Historical and cultural insights into Shinto practices and the Japanese Imperial legacy
Meeting Point
Starbucks Coffee – With Harajuku
1 Chome-14−30 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Your guide will be waiting outside the entrance.
Reviews
“Maria was a fantastic guide. She shared not only history but the personal meanings behind the rituals. It felt like a spiritual reset in the middle of Tokyo.”
“Our tour with Mak and Matt was wonderful—fun, informative, and interactive. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to understand Japan beyond the surface.”
“Andres made this feel like a private tour. We were a small group of 4, and he even gave local food recommendations afterward. A highlight of my trip.”
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