Meiji Shrine
Tokyo, Japan

Meiji Shrine

Tokyo's most sacred Shinto shrine surrounded by a tranquil forest, dedicated to Emperor Meiji in the heart of busy Harajuku.

Meiji Shrine is Tokyo's most important Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Set within a 170-acre forest of 120,000 trees, the shrine offers a serene escape from the surrounding Harajuku and Shibuya districts.

The shrine's torii gates, made from 1,500-year-old cypress trees, mark the transition from secular to sacred space. Traditional Shinto weddings frequently take place here, offering glimpses of Japanese ceremonial traditions.

How to experience this place

Write wishes on wooden ema plaques at the shrine

Walk through the entire forest path for full experience

New Year's visit (Hatsumode) is extremely crowded but memorable