Meiji Jingu Shrine: A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Tokyo
Find serenity in the heart of Tokyo at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and his consort, Empress Shoken, is located in the heart of Tokyo, just beside the busy JR Yamanote Line's Harajuku Station. Emperor Meiji led Japan's modernization in the late 19th century, transforming the nation into a world power. The shrine provides a calming contrast to the surrounding metropolis. Entry into the shrine grounds is marked by a massive torii gate, leading into a tranquil forest of approximately 100,000 trees donated from regions across Japan. This man-made forest creates a serene atmosphere, shielding visitors from the city's noise. The main complex of shrine buildings exudes a sense of peace, inviting visitors to participate in Shinto activities such as making offerings, buying charms, and writing wishes on ema. Meiji Jingu is one of Japan's most popular shrines, attracting millions of visitors each year. In the first days of the New Year, it welcomes over three million people for Hatsumode, the year's first prayers. Traditional Shinto weddings can often be witnessed. The Meiji Jingu Museum, opened in 2019, displays treasures from the shrine's collection, including personal belongings of the Emperor and Empress. The Inner Garden, requiring an entrance fee, is known for its irises blooming in mid-June and Kiyomasa's Well, a renowned power spot. Visitors can explore the shrine buildings, the Meiji Jingu Museum, and the Inner Garden. The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset, with hours varying seasonally. Admission to the shrine is free, but the Meiji Jingu Gyoen (Inner Garden) requires a 500 yen entrance fee, and the Meiji Jingu Museum costs 1,000 yen for adults.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the shrine's peaceful atmosphere.
- Check the shrine's calendar for festivals and events, such as the Spring Grand Festival in late April and early May.
- Explore the Inner Garden in June to see the irises in bloom and visit Kiyomasa's Well.
- Visit the Meiji Jingu Museum to learn more about the Emperor and Empress and see historical artifacts.
- Look for traditional Shinto weddings, often held on weekends.
A brief summary to Meiji Jingu
- 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Yoyogikamizonocho, Tokyo, 151-8557, JP
- +813-3379-5511
- Visit website
Getting There
-
Walking
From Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line), take the Omotesando Exit and walk north. Follow the signs for Meiji Jingu Shrine. The walk to the entrance takes about 1 minute, and then another 10 minutes through the forest to reach the main shrine buildings. There are no admission fees for the shrine itself.
-
Public Transport
From Shibuya Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station (¥140, 3 minutes, frequent departures). Alternatively, take the Fukutoshin Line to Meiji-jingumae Station. From there, follow the walking directions. A Suica or Pasmo card is recommended for easy payment on public transport. Bus services are also available from Shibuya Station to Meiji Jingu.
-
Taxi
From Shibuya Station, a taxi to Meiji Jingu costs approximately ¥2,100 - ¥2,600 and takes about 5 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the station. Note that traffic conditions may affect the travel time and cost.
Attractions Nearby to Meiji Jingu
-
Meiji Jingu Gehaiden
-
Couple Camphor Trees
-
Meiji Jingu Kaguraden
-
Meiji Jingu Nishitamagaki Torii
-
Meiji Jingu Sanno Torii
-
Meiji Jingu Gyoen
-
Meiji Jingu Nino Torii
-
Meiji Jingu Kaikan Hall
-
Meiji Shrine Sanshuden
-
Meiji Jingu Kitasando Torii
-
Yoyogi.shibuya. National Olympic
-
Famous Tree: "Yoyogi"
-
Yoyogi Pony Park
-
Imperial station site
-
Meiji Jingu Museum
Landmarks nearby to Meiji Jingu
-
Kiyomasa's Well
-
Treasure Museum
-
Hikage-zaka hill
-
Brahms Path
-
Cenotaph for the Submariners
-
Shibuya Gate Observation Deck
-
Hotel Century Southern Tower
-
Harajuku
-
Kyu-Goryo-Tei (Taiwan Pavilion)
-
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building South Observatory
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
-
Tokyo Night & Light
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory
-
BINGO Shibuya MODI Store