Meiji Jingu, Aki Travel Guide

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Escape the city bustle at Meiji Jingu, a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken in the heart of Tokyo.

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Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, offers a tranquil escape from Tokyo's vibrant city life. Established in 1920 and rebuilt in 1958 after wartime destruction, it features a sprawling forest, traditional architecture, and peaceful gardens.

A brief summary to Meiji Jingu

1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Yoyogikamizonocho, Tokyo, 151-8557, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Meiji Jingu.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the shrine's tranquil atmosphere.
Take part in Shinto rituals by making offerings, buying charms, or writing wishes on ema tablets.
Explore the Inner Garden to see the irises and Kiyomasa's Well (admission fee applies).
Bow before entering and after leaving through the torii gates as a sign of respect.

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Explore Meiji Jingu on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Meiji Jingu, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Meiji Jingu is easily accessible via public transportation. The shrine is a short walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line or Meiji-jingumae Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines. From Shibuya Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station (approx. 3 minutes, ¥140). From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station (approx. 5 minutes, ¥140).
Walking

From Harajuku Station, exit and follow the signs to Meiji Jingu. The entrance to the shrine is a short walk through the forest. From Meiji-jingumae Station, follow the signs to the shrine. The walk to the main shrine buildings takes approximately 10 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. From Shibuya Station to Meiji Jingu, a taxi ride takes approximately 5 minutes and costs between ¥2100 - ¥2600. Note that traffic conditions can affect travel time and cost.

Discover more about Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is a serene Shinto shrine honoring Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914). The shrine was constructed in 1920 to commemorate the virtues of the Emperor and Empress. Emperor Meiji led Japan's modernization, and the shrine stands as a testament to their legacy.Surrounded by a vast, man-made forest of over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, Meiji Jingu provides a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. Approaching the shrine, visitors pass under massive torii gates, marking the transition from the secular to the sacred. It's customary to bow before passing through these gates. The main complex includes the Main Hall, where visitors make offerings, purchase amulets, and write wishes on ema tablets.The expansive Inner Garden, located to the south, features irises planted during the Emperor's reign and Kiyomasa's Well, a popular 'power spot' believed to emit positive energy. The Meiji Jingu Museum, opened in 2019, showcases artifacts related to the Emperor and Empress, including their personal belongings and a carriage used by the Emperor. The shrine hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to witness traditional music and dance.