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The Meiji Shrine isn’t just a pretty place to visit – it’s also an important cultural and historical site. Dedicated to the spirits of the Meiji Emperor and his wife, the shrine was founded in 1920 and has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo.
History of Meiji Shrine
Dedicated to the deity of Emperor Meiji, the Meiji Shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo, is Located beside the JR Yamanote Line’s busy Harajuku Station, was founded in 1920 to honor the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Emperor Meiji, who ruled from 1867 to 1912, is credited with modernizing and westernizing Japan and is remembered as one of the country’s most influential leaders. The shrine was built on the site of the emperor’s former residence, and the grounds were designed to reflect the natural beauty of Japan.
The Meiji Shrine was destroyed during World War II, but it was rebuilt and re-consecrated in 1958. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo, attracting millions of visitors each year. In addition to being a place of worship, the shrine is also a popular spot for traditional Japanese weddings and other cultural events.
The shrine is surrounded by a dense forest, which is home to over 120,000 trees that were donated by people from all over Japan. The forest serves as a natural division between the shrine and the bustling city, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Features of Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a beautiful and peaceful place, with a spacious and well-manicured garden that is perfect for strolling or picnicking. The shrine itself is a stunning piece of architecture, with a traditional wooden design and a large, ornate gate.
One of the most striking features of the shrine is the Torii gate, which marks the entrance to the shrine grounds, which marks the entrance to the shrine grounds. The gate is made of wood and is painted bright vermilion, a color that is associated with good fortune and spiritual purity in Japan.
As you enter the shrine grounds, you’ll pass through a large courtyard that is surrounded by trees and bushes. The courtyard is a popular spot for visitors to take photos, and it’s also a great place to relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Visiting Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is located in the heart of Tokyo, and it’s easy to get to by train or subway, just a short walk from the bustling shopping district of Harajuku. To get there on foot, exit Harajuku Station and head east towards the Meiji-Jingumae intersection. Turn left at the intersection and walk for about 5 minutes until you see the Meiji Shrine on your right.
Alternatively, you can also take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line from Harajuku Station to Meiji-Jingumae Station, which is just a few minutes walk from the shrine.
When visiting the shrine, it’s important to remember that it is a place of worship, so be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the shrine building. It’s also a good idea to visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
There is no admission fee to visit the Meiji Shrine, but you may want to bring some money with you if you’d like to make an offering at the shrine or purchase a charm or good luck talisman.
An experience in mixing modern and tradition in bustling Tokyo
The Meiji Shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tokyo. Its beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere provide a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life, and its cultural and historical significance makes it an interesting and enriching place to visit. Whether you’re interested in Japanese history, and culture, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Meiji Shrine is a perfect choice.
