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Meiji Shrine in Tokyo Japan by Rs1421 (GNU Free)

 

About

Ok, now we are talking the most visited and probably most famous shrine in Japan, Meiji Shrine. Why is it the most visited and most famous? Well... it does have great historical significance but one of main reasons it is visited so much is that it is right down town Tokyo next to one of the most popular stations in Tokyo! Meiji Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and his wife Empress Shoken (1849-1914). Built in an area where the Emporer and Empress liked to visit, Meiji Shrine was "officially" completed in 1926 inside what is now Yoyogi Park, a forested "quiet" area within the densely built up Tokyo.  Emperor Meiji is well known for being the Emperor who quickly brought Japan from a feudal "backward" country at the time (Shoguns and Samurai) to a capitalist modern imperial world power. The shrine was destroyed during the Tokyo bombings in World War 2 but rebuilt in the late 1950's.

From Harajuku Station it takes about 15 min. to walk to the shrine through the park. There is a huge Tori gate at the entrance which feels like going from mayhem (Tokyo city) to tranquility (Yogogi Park) once you step through. Over 10,000 trees were planted during the construction of the shrine which were donated from prefectures around the country.  The shrine itself is pretty much right in the middle of Yoyogi Park and it sure feels good relax, see some green and get some peace and quiet after a day around Tokyo.  Visitors to the shrine can take part in Shinto activities such as making offerings at the main hall, buying charms and amulets or writing out one's wish on an ema (a wooden plate where you write a "wish", leave it at the shrine and hope it comes true).

You can continue "north" through the park to reach the "Treasure House" which contains "treasures", belongings of the Emperor and Empress.  There is a carriage here they used to ride and other personal belongings. Note that there is a small free for entrance to the "Treasure House".

South of the the main shrine is the Inner Garden (the entrance is actually on the way to the main shrine, see the map below).  There is also a small fee to enter this area but it is a very nice garden and contains lots of flowers, popular in June when the Irises are in bloom.

The paths through the park are wide and flat with beautiful trees and foliage lining either side. On most days the park is decently filled with tourists (both Japanese and foreigners) and you might even spot some women in Kimonos or happen apon a traditional Shinto wedding that may be taking place. As always, if you go during a summer month it is highly recommended to take a sun umbrella and a bottle of water.

 

Access

Closest Train Station: Harajuku

1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho
Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557 Japan

Exit Harajuku station, cross the bridge over the tracks and Yoyogi Park and the path to Meiji Shrine is right there.

Google Map

 

Hotels & Lodging

View a full list of Hotels and Lodging in or nearby Meiji Shrine.

 

Hours & Fees

Hours: Depending on month hours vary but generally from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closed: No closing days

Cost: Grounds: Free, Meiji Jingu Museum or Treasure House: 18+: 1,000 yen, under 18: 900 yen.

Information presented is based on the time it was created. There may be changes since publication. Please confirm information by visiting the Official Website before visiting.

 

Resources

Website: Meiji Shrine Homepage