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Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Description

Meiji Jingū is a Shinto shrine located in Tokyo's Shibuya district, in a 70ha forested area. It is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken, and consists of an inner precinct called Naien that includes the main building and the treasure museum, and the outer precinct called Gaien with gravel roads and gates (torii) shaded by cedar trees. Several major festivals take place there every year.

Access & Transport

The shrine is adjacent to Yoyogi Park, roughly between the centres of Shibuya and Shinjuku. The Sangubashi (Odakyu line) and Harajuku (Yamanote line, C, F) stations are located on the western and southern edges of the religious complex with Kita-sando (F) and Yoyogi (Chuo, Chuo Sobu, Yamanote, E) providing additional options on the north-eastern side.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining this activity with Yoyogi park and a walk through the Harajuku neighbourhood

Meta review

One of the best-known and busiest shrines in Tokyo, it is featured in travel guides and well rated on online review portals. Visitors mostly note the stark difference in atmosphere when entering the calm forested precinct as compared to Harajuku or Shibuya and one should take the time to admire the trees and torii gates rather than head straight to the main buildings. It is also a good place to observe local worshippers, including multi-generation families, wearing their kimono and praying for good health and good fortune. In fact, several reviewers mention that hiring a guide here might be a good idea to understand the etiquette and the historical background. Tip: if going on weekend, best to go early before it gets a little crowded.

Environmental & Social

No carbon footprint linked to visits and green spaces.

Conclusion

The Meiji Shrine is the most important religious complex in western Tokyo and a pleasant place to wander in, seemingly a world away from the busy commercial areas just outside. Aesthetically, it doesn't feel unique among shrines in the country but, in the centre of a metropolis, it is a recommended experience.

Key positive

Cultural significance

Relaxing and clean design

Key negative

None

Suitability

No religious denomination restrictions and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Meiji Jingu opens with sunrise and closes with sunset. Some facilities open 09h00-16h00

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:1h 10m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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