Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya, Tokyo, surrounded by a sprawling 170-acre forest that feels a world away from the city's hustle. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who played key roles in Japan's modernization, the shrine offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and traditional rituals. Visitors enter through a massive torii gate and walk along a gravel path lined with towering trees, leading to the main hall. The atmosphere is calm, with the scent of hinoki cypress and the sound of birds. You'll often see weddings, festivals, and people writing prayers on wooden ema plaques. The inner garden, with its irises and seasonal blooms, is especially lovely in June. The shrine's simplicity and natural setting make it a distinctive spiritual experience in the heart of Tokyo.

Don't miss

• Pass through the giant wooden torii gate, one of the largest in Japan
• Observe traditional Shinto rituals like purification at the temizuya
• Write wishes on ema wooden plaques and see the sake barrel displays
• Visit the inner garden (Yoyogi Gyoen) for seasonal flowers, especially irises in June
• Explore the treasure museum for artifacts related to the imperial couple

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Meiji Jingu

Cheapest way inTokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour5★ · 1,422 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$13 per personSee dates →Most bookedTokyo: Imperial Palace and Shogun Historical Walking Tour4.9★ · 2,979 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleBest of Tokyo Private Custom Tour: Tsukiji, Asakusa & Meiji-jingu4.9★ · 1,481 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$151 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Allow extra time on weekends and holidays when weddings and festivals occur.
• Dress modestly as it's a religious site; no loud behavior.
• Purify your hands and mouth at the water pavilion before approaching the main hall.
• Photography is allowed outdoors but not inside the main hall or museum.

A bit of history

Meiji Jingu was established in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The original buildings were destroyed in World War II but were rebuilt in 1958, funded by public donations. The forest was created with trees donated from across Japan.