Meiji Shrine

Overview

Meiji Shrine is Tokyo's most important Shinto shrine, set within a dense 170-acre forest in the heart of the city. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it offers a profound sense of tranquility just steps from the chaos of Harajuku.

Highlights

• The Torii Gates: The massive 12-meter cypress wood torii gate at the entrance is one of the largest in Japan, immediately transporting you from urban Tokyo into sacred forest.
• The Forest: 100,000 trees donated from across Japan were planted when the shrine was built, creating a lush, mature forest that feels ancient despite being only a century old.
• Traditional Weddings: Visitors frequently witness traditional Shinto wedding processions crossing the grounds in full ceremonial dress.

History

Built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji (who opened Japan to the modern world) and his consort. The original buildings were destroyed in WWII air raids and faithfully rebuilt in 1958 using traditional Japanese cypress construction techniques.

Visitor Tips

• New Year: Meiji Shrine is the most popular hatsumode (first shrine visit) destination in Japan, drawing over 3 million visitors in the first three days of January.
• Sake Barrels: Don't miss the impressive wall of sake barrels (kazaridaru) donated by breweries across Japan, displayed near the entrance.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.