Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) travel guide 明治神宮

1-1 Yoyogi Kamizono-cho, Shibuya City, Tokyo

A serene and spiritual forest thrives in the middle of the concrete jungle

The densely forested grounds of Meiji Jingu Shrine occupy a large swath of land bisecting Shinjuku and Shibuya. A walking path cuts through the trees, leading to the shrine in the center. Walking along this misty trail will make you forget you're in the middle of two of Tokyo's busiest districts.

Tips

Head to the Imperial Garden in June, when irises are blooming
Look for traditional weddings taking place on Sunday mornings with brides in all-white kimonos, grooms in a haori coat decorated with one's family crest and hakama

Meiji Jingu Shrine honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who had led Japan through a period of rapid modernization starting in the second half of the 19th century. The facility's vast forest, which spans 170 hectares, was created by transplanting approximately 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan. The shrine celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020.

After your visit to Meij Jingu Shrine, enjoy a stroll around the adjacent Yoyogi Park followed by shopping and food in the surrounding neighborhoods, which include Harajuku, Omotesando, Shibuya, and Shinjuku.