Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū)

Name: Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū)
Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
Rating: 4.6

4.6 Tourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Meiji Shrine (明治神宮, Meiji Jingū) is a Shinto shrine in Shibuya. Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it’s one of Japan’s most important religious sites. Built in 1920, it honors Emperor Meiji, who was the key player in the Meiji Restoration, the period when Japan became a modern state.

You start your journey at the big torii gate, a 1500 year old cypress wood structure. This gate marks the entrance to a forested area, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the busy city. The path, lined with over 100,000 trees from all over Japan, leads to the main shrine buildings, feeling peaceful and sacred.

The honden is the main hall and is a simple yet beautiful traditional Japanese building. It’s where people come to pray, write wishes on ema (wooden plaques), and participate in traditional ceremonies. Meiji Shrine is also famous for its seasonal events, such as the Yabusame archery in autumn and the New Year’s celebrations, which attracts millions of visitors seeking blessings for the year.

Next to the shrine is the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden, a peaceful oasis famous for its iris garden, which is especially beautiful in June during the rainy season. Meiji Shrine is a peaceful place to celebrate Japan’s imperial history and culture.

Phone

+81 3-3379-5511

Website

www.meijijingu.or.jp

The area

Address

1-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū)

PROS ➕ Large shrines and walking paths ➕ Plenty of POIs CONS ➖ None Date visited: 05/01/2024 This place was packed during the holiday, so I decided to enter through one of the side gates. It was much less busy than I had anticipated. The gate led me to a wide, gravel path stretching through a large wooded area. Urban sounds were subdued, even though I was in the middle of Tokyo, thanks to the trees acting as a natural sound barrier. The path split and curved at every corner. Eventually, I reached the main shrine. The rain didn’t stop lines of people from visiting this sacred place. I made my way to the side hall where Goshuin seals were being distributed. The waiting line wasn’t long, but it still took nearly an hour to receive my seal. Thankfully, I didn’t mind spending time there, gazing at ancient structures and the surrounding nature while I waited. I can imagine it would be a blessing to live in this area. The forest alone provides hours of relaxation and immersion in nature.

Thang

Oct 7, 2025

Hands down my favorite shrine to visit on my Japan trip. The ancient forest is beautiful and the stroll to the shrine is a relaxing and refreshing break from the urban streets of Tokyo. Once in the shrine area, you can see the empress’ tea house, a beautiful lily pond, a well that was previously used for tea ceremonies, and enjoy a walk through lily and azalea gardens. They have many takeaway souvenirs available too. Look out for the spiders on your walk! They’re mostly in the trees but can be near the path. They are STUNNING and did not seem bothered by anyone. Enjoy the wildlife and good vibes of this gorgeous shrine.

Chelsea Caslow

Sep 20, 2025

I went there for a brief amount of time, but the activities there are so fun. Honestly one of my favourites places I went to on my trip. The night view is stunning, and the buildings are gorgeous. You can rent a Yukata/Kimono and walk through the streets, or even draw your luck for the year. It's good, even for the foodies. Many street vendors with traditional Japanese sweets and modern desserts, along with restaurants nearby! The temples are gorgeous, totally recommend ~

grace

Sep 23, 2025

The shine is located in a peaceful garden in the middle of the city. It is a nice walk in to get to the shrine. This would not be ideal though for those who are physically limited or disabled given the distance and loose stones. Very overcrowded once you reach the shrine. It’s worth seeing and exploring the grounds and the sake barrels.

Jordan N

Oct 8, 2025

The Meiji Shrine is truly one of the most peaceful places in all of Tokyo. Even though it was quite busy when we visited, the atmosphere felt calm and relaxing from the moment we walked through the torii gates. The garden is absolutely beautiful — full of greenery and perfectly maintained, it feels like a little oasis in the middle of the city. You can really sense the deep tradition and respect that surround this place. A must-visit spot to slow down, breathe, and take in a very special side of Tokyo.