Tokyo, a dream destination for many people, was also for me. Tokyo was my primary destination for backapacking southeast Asia, my first long-term trip on a one way ticket. When you work hard for your dreams, the apprieciation is much higher, and the imporession of Tokyo was mind blowing. The city amazes with all the skyscrapers, historic temples and traditional gardens.
Meiji Jingu – Tokyo’s most significant temple – is located in the heart of the world’s biggest metropolis. The temple provides a stark contrast to the urban landscape of the city. There are many stunning things to do in Meiji Jingu – a serene oasis surrounded by lash forest.
Things to do in Meiji Jingu.
Sightseeing Meiji Jingu with all the attractions around takes about 3-4 hours, but the place is so magic you can easily spend a day hanging around.
It’s funny that from all my backpacking trips and hiking adventures across Southeast Asia, my feet suffer the most in Japan! Distances here are killing! I’m so fascinated by this country that I traverse more than 15 km every day.
Meiji Jingu is a popular place for both locals and tourists, known for its beautiful gardens and quiet atmosphere. Yoyogi Park and Imperial Palace are most significant places to check out in the area.
How much does it cost to visit Meiji Jingu?
Meiji Jingu is open every day from sunrise to sunset and has no admission fee.
Best time to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine.
The best time to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine is from late May till late June, mostly because the iris garden is looking spectacular. Meiji Shrine opening hours are from sunrise to sunset.
If you come on Sundays are quite likely to see a wedding procession, which is a stunning and unique ceremony.
However, I was there in wintertime and the landscape was gorgeous. The temperatures were a bit low but the air was clean and the atmosphere was pleasantly cold.
Getting to Meiji Jingle Temple.
Meiji Jingu is located in Shibuya district, with one of the best public transportation in the world it is very easy to get to the shrine.
TRAIN: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. Meiji Jingu Shrine is about a 10-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Meiji-jingumae Station, which is closer to the shrine’s entrance.
Klook Subway Passes offers a great value for 24h Subway ticket for only ~ $5, or 48h Subway ticket for ~$7.50
WALKING OR CYCLING: Depending on where you are in Tokyo, you can also consider walking or cycling to the shrine, especially if you are in the nearby Shibuya or Harajuku areas.
TAXI: Taxis are also readily available in Tokyo and you can easily reach Meiji Jingu Shrine by taxi or by driving
TOUR: One of the two most popular Tokyo Tours are Tokyo Panoramic: Meiji Shrine,Asakusa Temple,Tokyo Tower Day Tour or Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide.
Bike Tour to Meiji Jingu, Yoyogi Park and Imperial Palace.
Meiji Jingu Museum.
Meiji Jingu, located in Shibuya district, was built for the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. It has been totally damaged during II world war and reconstructed in 1958.
Meiji Jingu Museum was opened in October 2019. The museum is elegantly designed by star architect Kuma Kengo. There are personal items of the Emperor and Empress, as well as the carriage the Emperor rode in for the formal proclamation of the Meiji Constitution in 1889.
On the way to Meiji Jingu Temple.
Adorable walking alley takes you toward the temple, surrounded by whole year’s green tries. There are 365 tree species planted while rebuilding the area.
One of the most characteristic spots along the alley is a famous WALL OF SAKE BARRELS.
Meiji is one of the most popular temples in Japan, most visited during first days of New Year. On these days the temple receives more than three million visitors. It’s one of the New Year’s customs to pray for good luck in the upcoming year (hatsumode). During the year (especially June) the temple is a popular place for organizing traditional Shinto weddings.
Shinto weddings.
If you’re lucky, you might have the opportunity to witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony taking place at the shrine. The elaborate rituals and stunning attire make these weddings a captivating sight for visitors.
Write a wish on EMA.
Don’t miss the chance to participate in the popular Japanese tradition of writing wishes on ema. You will notice mall wooden plaques to write your wish and hang them at the shrine. Whether you’re seeking good fortune, love, success, expressing your hopes and dreams (for lots of travels) in this manner can be a meaningful and memorable part of your adventure.
Take part in a Shinto ceremony.
One of the best experiences in Meiji Jingu is placing yourself in the middle of a spiritual atmosphere of the shrine by observing or participating in a traditional Shinto ceremony. Witnessing the rituals and prayers conducted by the shrine’s priests is a unique and enlightening experience that can improve your understanding of Japanese culture.
Things to do in Meiji Jingu:
- Tourist Information Center Harajuku
- Meiji Shrine Imperial Garden
- Wall of Sake Barrels
- Togo Shrine
- Meiji Jingu Museum
Surreal Yoyogi Park.
On the way to Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine) I decide to visit Yoyogi Park. The autumn unveils true colors and atmosphere of the nature. This amazing green space provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Yoyogi Park is a beautiful oasis located in the heart of Tokyo. Covering an impressive 134 acres. You will enjoy peaceful walking paths through lush greenary.
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