The Meiji Shrine (明治神宮), located in Shibuya, Tokyo, is one of the most famous and popular Shinto shrines in Japan. It was built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who were instrumental in Japan’s modernization during the late 19th century.
The shrine is surrounded by a large forested area, which is a popular spot for walking and enjoying nature. The path leading up to the shrine is lined with large Torii gates, which are traditional Japanese gates that mark the entrance to a sacred space.
The Meiji Shrine is considered a symbol of Japan’s Shinto heritage and is visited by millions of people each year. It is particularly popular during the New Year holiday, when many people come to pray for good fortune and success in the coming year.
Visitors to the shrine can participate in traditional Shinto rituals, such as writing wishes on wooden ema plaques or buying lucky charms at the shrine’s gift shop. There are also several events and festivals held at the shrine throughout the year, including the annual New Year’s Day ceremony and the Spring Grand Festival.
Getting there
From Shibuya Station to Meiji Shrine:
| Bus | Shibuya Station ↓ Yamanote Line (Clockwise) ↓ 2 minutes (Nonstop) Harajuku Station ↓ Walk about 2 minutes ↓ Meiji Shrine (Cost 146 yen) |
| Walk | About 20 minutes (1.2 km) |
| Taxi | About 5 minutes (Cost about 700 yen) |
Details
| Hours | January / 6:40 AM – 4:20 PM February / 6:20 AM – 4:50 PM March / 5:40 AM – 5:20 PM April / 5:10 AM – 5:50 PM May / 5:00 AM – 6:10 PM June / 5:00 AM – 6:30 PM July / 5:00 AM – 6:20 PM August / 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM September / 5:20 AM – 5:20 PM October / 5:40 AM – 4:40 PM November / 6:10 AM – 4:10 PM December / 6:40 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 3-3379-5511 |
| Address | 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557 |
| Official Website | https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/ |
