Meiji Jingu 明治神宮
Shibuya, Tokyo · Open in Google Maps
Meiji Jingu is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, under whom Japan opened to the world in the late 19th century. It sits in a dense forest right beside Harajuku and Yoyogi Park, and is one of the busiest shrines in Japan for the New Year's first visit (hatsumōde).
What to look for
- The forest was planted when the shrine was built in the early 20th century, with trees donated from all over Japan. Today it feels like an old woodland in the middle of the city.
- Along the approach you will see a wall of decorated sake barrels donated by brewers, and opposite them barrels of French wine, a nod to the emperor's interest in Western culture.
- The main buildings were destroyed in air raids in 1945 and rebuilt after the war.
- Traditional Shinto weddings are often held here, so you may see a wedding procession crossing the courtyard.
Enshrined kami
- Emperor Meiji 明治天皇
- Empress Shōken 昭憲皇太后
What people pray for here
People come to pray for safety, good fortune and family happiness, and many write wishes on ema boards.
Etiquette
If you see a wedding procession, step aside and let it pass. Photos from a distance are generally fine, but don't block the path.
New to shrines? Read our short guide to shrine etiquette: purifying your hands, bowing and clapping, offerings, omamori and goshuin.