Meiji Jingu, A serene oasis amidst Tokyo's bustle
1-1 Yoyogikoencho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
4.4
Introduction
Meiji Jingu is one of the important Shinto shrines in Japan, enshrining the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It is located in Tokyo and is a tranquil place surrounded by greenery. A luxurious torii gate stands at the entrance of the shrine like a guardian. After passing through the "rising" shaped Sando, the most magnificent structures of the shrine, the main hall and treasure house will appear before your eyes. Shin-ichiro Okada was the designer of the main hall, and he used pebbles to pave the ground to ward off evil spirits. The plants in the Meiji Jingu inner garden show different views with the change of seasons. Although there are few cherry blossoms, which are representative of Japan, water lilies have become one of the most important plants in the shrine because Empress Shoken loved them very much. In September, water lilies bloom in the shrine and provide the visitors with a visual feast. In autumn, the ginkgo avenue at the entrance of the shrine can be enjoyed with a golden and brilliant view, which is very beautiful. Every October, on the occasion of Emperor Meiji's birthday, Meiji Jingu presents various traditional arts performances. The most special one is the Yabusame horseback archery, a classical ritual that has been passed down for 1500 years, which is a must-see. Address 1-1 Yoyogikoencho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening hours January 6:40-16:20
February 6:20-16:50
March 5:40-17:20
April 5:10-17:50
May 5:00-18:10
June 5:00-18:30
July 5:00-18:20
August 5:00-18:00
September 5:20-17:20
October 5:40-16:40
November 6:10-16:10
December 6:40-16:00.
Transportation JR Yamanote line, Harajuku station; Chiyoda line/Fukutoshin line, Meiji Jingu-mae station.
Most temples and shrines in Japan are basically similar to each other
