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Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū)

4.6 (200)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.



The area

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

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

One of the oldest temple in Tokyo. You can reach there via train line, was so easy. No need to buy ticket or make reservation before. There are a few additional place in the complex. 1 is the museum and the other one is botanical garden. Museum was so small and shows the small figure of the temple are and the somethings which was belongs to Emperor Meiji like clothes and swords and etc. The entrance price was 1000 YEN for adult and 900 YEN for child. Botanical garden is more attractive than the museum and the price was 400 YEN.
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Burak Kayabaşı
Jun 19, 2025
Okay. I definitely underestimated the size of this place. After already logging miles wandering around greater Tokyo, I thought this would be a quick stroll — but no. If you're looking to get your steps in while walking through a peaceful, almost forest-like garden right in the middle of the city, this is the spot. It feels like the chaos of Tokyo fades away the second you enter. There's something really calming about it, like the trees and paths absorb the noise. It’s very safe — I’ve been here during the day and at night. That said, if you’re planning a night walk, be aware that some parts can get pretty dark, so bring a small flashlight or have your phone ready. It’s not dangerous, just shadowy in places. It wasn’t crowded when I went, which made the experience even more serene. You’ll find restrooms along the way, though I’m not sure how late they stay open, so keep that in mind. This path can also serve as a scenic way to cross from one part of the city to another — not a shortcut by any means, but it’s worth it for the calm, nature-filled atmosphere alone. Definitely check it out. Good food near by, lots of cafes and quick bites.
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Tae Yoo
May 26, 2025
Definitely worth the visit, walking through the huge gates of spectacular along through all the saki containers along the walkway is really interesting and then when you get there it’s just spellbinding. We went late evening an hour before closure as it was cooler in the summer, spent some time just sitting appreciating the fast open spaces in the temple itself. Easy to get there from the train station and there’s some great places to eat quite close by so really enjoyable afternoon or early evening activity in the summer.
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Lisa Mueller
Jun 22, 2025
A serene Shinto shrine nestled within a lush, expansive forest in the heart of Tokyo, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. The approach to the shrine is marked by towering torii gates and tranquil walking paths lined with trees. The main shrine buildings exemplify traditional Japanese architecture, offering insight into the country's cultural heritage. You can participate in customary Shinto practices, such as writing wishes on ema plaques or making offerings at the main hall. The surrounding forest, meticulously planted with over ~ 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, adds to the shrine's tranquil ambiance. Located adjacent to Harajuku Station, it's easily accessible and provides a refreshing contrast to the nearby bustling districts. Enjoy 😎🙏🧘‍♀️🧘
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Ryan GLOBETROTTER
Mar 28, 2025
A beautiful and meaningful temple experience in Tokyo. To truly understand the spirit of modern Japan, you need to step into this sacred place and reflect on the people who built it and why it was created. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the entrance to the temple itself, but the journey is part of the experience — peaceful, surrounded by towering trees and nature that make you forget you’re in the heart of Tokyo. Once you arrive, the temple and its surroundings are stunning. Watching visitors quietly offer prayers adds to the deep sense of tradition and serenity. Meiji Jingu is not only beautiful, but also an important window into Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Highly recommended.
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Jon Penn
May 7, 2025

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