Meiji Jingu is one of the most representative shrines in Japan, attracting a large number of visitors every year. For first-time visitors, KINNSO has specially compiled a Meiji Jingu guide, including worship procedures, transportation methods and surrounding attractions, allowing you to easily plan your itinerary and experience the sacred atmosphere of Meiji Jingu!
Introduction to Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is located in Shibuya District, Tokyo, and is one of the top shrines in Japan. The shrine was built to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and it was officially completed in 1920. Covering an area of about 700,000 square meters, the vast park contains a rich natural ecosystem and historical culture, attracting numerous visitors to worship, stroll, and admire the scenery.
The architecture of Meiji Shrine blends traditional Japanese shrine styles with modern design elements. The prayer hall adopts an ancient and elegant Japanese style, solemn and dignified. The shrine's main gate is 12 meters high, imposing and magnificent. Walking along the pathway, the lush forest on both sides makes one feel like they are in a paradise, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Visiting Meiji Shrine Strategies
Preparation before worship.
- Dress in neat and modest clothing, avoiding outfits with exposed shoulders or extremely short skirts.
- You may bring 5 yen or 50 yen coins for casting fortunes.
- Before entering the shrine, cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin (temizuya), symbolizing spiritual purity.
Ritual of worship / Worship procedure / Procedure for visiting a shrine
- When passing through the torii gate, please pass from the slightly left side of the center and do not step on the central stone.
- When you reach the front of the main hall, first throw coins into the offering box and bow twice.
- Join your hands together, silently recite your wish, and bow again.
- When exiting, bow one more time to express your gratitude.
Ema and Goshuin
Ema are wooden plaques with wishes written on them, hung in designated areas of shrines to symbolize the transmission of desires to the deities. Omamori are charms stamped with a seal on special books; each shrine has a different seal, making them collectible souvenirs.
Must-see highlights
Stunning torii gate and approach path.
The main gate of Meiji Shrine is a large torii gate, 12 meters high and made of Taiwan cypress. After passing through the grand torii gate, both sides of the approach are lined with beech trees from all over Japan. Walking on the lush approach, you instantly escape the noise of the city, as if stepping into another world. The approach is about 300 meters long, and a stroll along it relaxes both body and mind. Slow down your pace and savor this tranquility. There are handwashing stands along both sides of the path, allowing worshippers to wash their hands and mouth, purifying their bodies and minds.
Traditional Japanese Shinto wedding ceremony
Meiji Jingu is one of the most popular wedding venues in Tokyo. Over 20 couples hold Shinto ceremonies here every day. If you have the chance, take a moment to admire this solemn and dignified traditional Japanese wedding. The bride, dressed in a white shiromuku with an orange veil, and the groom, wearing a black montsuki hakama, slowly walk into the shrine. The atmosphere is both solemn and romantic. Under the witness of their loved ones, they complete the "san san ku do" (three three nine) sake-sharing ceremony, vowing to be together for life. It's no wonder that many Japanese celebrities choose to get married at Meiji Jingu. Popular actors like Naomi Watanabe and Takuya Kimura have both tied the knot here.
Shibuya's largest green park.
Meiji Jingu covers an area of 700,000 square meters, making it the largest green space in Shibuya. Inside the park, there are ponds like the Imperial Garden Pond, Iris Garden, and Yamoto Pond, among other scenic spots. The park experiences distinct seasons, showcasing different natural beauty with cherry blossoms in spring, lotuses in summer, red maple leaves in autumn, and plum blossoms in winter. Meiji Memorial Museum is located within the park, enshrining the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. At the end of October, the park hosts the Meiji Jingu Autumn Festival, featuring traditional ceremonies like the Niikama-sai ritual, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich atmosphere of Japanese traditional culture. Different facilities within the park have varying opening hours, so it's recommended to check the official website for details beforehand.
Three, Meiji Jingu's characteristic activities and festivals.
- New Year's Visit
Every year during the New Year period, Meiji Jingu attracts a large number of visitors to pay their respects, making it one of the most crowded shrines for New Year visits in Tokyo. It is recommended to arrive early to feel the lively atmosphere.
- Traditional Wedding
Meiji Jingu is a well-known location for hosting traditional Japanese weddings. If you are fortunate enough to encounter one, take a moment to admire this solemn and romantic ceremony. The bride and groom, dressed in elegant kimonos, enter the hall under the blessings of the crowd.
- Festival Activities
Throughout the year, Meiji Jingu hosts various festival activities, such as the Spring Grand Festival in April, the Iris Festival in June, and the Shichi-Go-San Festival in November. You can arrange your itinerary according to the season to enjoy traditional ceremonies and performances.
Five, Meiji Jingu Transportation Strategy
Take the JR Yamanote Line.
Get off at Harajuku Station or Yoyogi Station and walk for about 10 minutes in the direction of Meiji Jingu Shrine to arrive.
Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or Fukutoshin Line.
Get off at Meiji Jingumae Station and connect directly to the shrine's approach path.
Take Toei Subway Dai-Edo Line.
Get off at Yoyogi Station or National Stadium Station, and it is a 5-10 minute walk to reach there.
