Meiji Shrine : Journeying Through Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine is known for the following:
Dedication to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken: The shrine is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, who played pivotal roles in modernizing Japan. The shrine serves as a place of reverence for their spirits [Meiji Shrine].
Location Amidst Nature: Situated in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Jingu is set within a lush green forest covering 70 hectares. It provides a serene and natural escape from the bustling city, making it a peaceful and picturesque shrine [About Meiji Jingu].
Symbolic Spiritual Spots: Within the shrine, you can find symbolic spiritual spots like Kiyomasa’s Well, offering a deeper spiritual connection and a sense of tranquility.
Historical Significance: Meiji Shrine was completed in 1920 and holds a prominent place in Japanese history. It’s a significant Shinto shrine that attracts both locals and tourists, making it one of the most famous shrines in Japan [2].

1-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, 151-8557, Japan

Meiji Jingu Shrine is just 1 minute walking distance from Harajuku station. Just a reminder that the shrine has many gates. After getting out of Harajuku station go to the right and follow the signs for Meiji Shrine.

Many visitors discover it to be a meaningful and serene experience, making it a recommended addition to Tokyo itineraries.

Admission to the shrine grounds is free. It costs 500 yen to access the iris garden and 1000 yen to enter the Treasure House and Treasure Museum Annex (Bunkakan).

Visitors to Meiji Shrine in Tokyo engage in various activities, including:
1. People come to the shrine to offer prayers, make wishes, and seek blessings. They often participate in Shinto rituals and ceremonies, such as making offerings and bowing in respect to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
2. Meiji Shrine features a beautiful Inner Garden known as Meiji Jingu Gyoen. Visitors can explore this garden, known for its seasonal beauty and traditional Japanese landscaping.
3. The shrine hosts valuable exhibitions that provide insight into the life and contributions of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. This allows visitors to learn about Japanese history and culture.
4. During the New Year, Meiji Shrine welcomes millions of visitors for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. It’s a significant cultural tradition in Japan.

When visiting Meiji Shrine in Japan, it is recommended to dress conservatively and modestly to show respect for the sacred site. While there is no strict dress code, wearing shorts, tank tops, and short skirts is generally discouraged. It’s advised to opt for clothing that covers more skin and is both comfortable and conservative. Because Meiji Shrine is nestled in a natural setting, which includes insects, it is advisable to avoid exposing too much skin.

Around 1 to 2 hours are sufficient for the visit, depending on how much you want to cover. Visiting the shrine and museum will take more time than visiting only the shrine.

Eating is allowed only in the designated areas.

Yes, photos are allowed. Nevertheless, it’s important to be aware that taking photos is not allowed in the vicinity of the main shrine, where individuals are engaged in prayer. Additionally, kindly avoid capturing images of the amulet office.

To pray at Meiji Shrine, follow these steps:
Approach the Shrine: Walk up to the shrine’s main hall, making sure to walk on the sides of the path as the center is reserved for the deities.
Cleansing Ritual: At the purification fountain near the entrance, take the ladle provided and wash your hands and mouth to purify yourself.
Bow: As a sign of respect, bow deeply once before proceeding.
Make an Offering: At the main hall, you can make an offering, usually in the form of money, by placing it in the offering box. It’s customary to throw a coin into the box.
Clap Twice: Clap your hands together twice to get the attention of the deities.
Silent Prayer: After clapping, put your hands together in front of your chest and say your prayer in silence. You can make your wishes or give thanks at this time.
Bow Again: Finally, bow deeply once more to show your respect.
Ema (Optional): If you have a specific wish, you can purchase an ema (wooden votive tablet) at the shrine, write your wish on it, and hang it on a designated board.
Remember to be respectful and quiet during your visit. Meiji Shrine is a place of serenity and reflection.

You can wear jeans to Japanese shrines, as there isn’t a strict dress code for visiting these places. However, it’s advisable to follow a “smart casual” dress code, which means wearing something comfortable but conservative when visiting shrines and temples in Japan.

Shrines in Japan are often red for several cultural and symbolic reasons:
Warding off Evil Spirits: The red color is believed to have the power to reject evil spirits and protect against danger. It is thought to keep bad luck at bay, making it an ideal choice for religious structures where protection is paramount.
Spiritual Significance: Red, or vermilion, has deep spiritual significance in Japan. It is used to represent vitality and energy. In the context of shrines, it symbolizes the spiritual vitality and energy of the deities enshrined within.
Inari Shrines: Red is particularly associated with Inari Shrines, which enshrine the deity of harvest. In these shrines, the use of red is related to the wish for a bountiful harvest and prosperity.
Warding Off Bad Luck: Red is also believed to reject bad luck, which is important in the context of shrines where people go to seek blessings and protection from misfortune.
Cultural Tradition: The use of red in shrines dates back to ancient times and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It’s not only symbolic but also a reflection of tradition and heritage.