Meiji Jingu Guide | Blessings, Highlights, Goshuin, Access, Parking, and More

Nestled in a lush forest right in the heart of the city, Meiji Jingu enshrines Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It’s one of Japan’s most visited shrines throughout the year—and especially during New Year’s, it draws the largest number of worshippers in the country.
The vast grounds are wrapped in a peaceful and majestic atmosphere that makes you forget you’re in the middle of Tokyo. It’s a place that offers calm, healing, and a deep sense of serenity to everyone who visits.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and background of Meiji Jingu, along with its highlights and must-see spots. Feel free to use it as a guide for your visit.

Basic Information about Meiji Jingu

• Shrine Name: Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine)
• Location: 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• Phone: +81-3-3379-5511
• Opening Hours:
  From sunrise to sunset (please refer to the seasonal schedule on the official website)
• Enshrined Deities: Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken
• Spiritual Blessings:
  Marital harmony & family safety
  Prayers for peace
  Academic success
  Matchmaking and love, etc.
• Facilities:
  Yushukan (Museum)
• Official Website:
  Meiji Jingu Official Site
• Related Facilities:
  Meiji Jingu Museum
  Shiseikan Martial Arts Hall
  Meiji Kinenkan (Meiji Memorial Hall)

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History and Origins of Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu was built to enshrine the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, following their passing. The shrine was created in response to a heartfelt wish from people all across Japan who wanted to honor and remember the virtues of the imperial couple forever.
Emperor Meiji passed away in 1912 (Meiji 45), and Empress Shoken followed in 1914 (Taisho 3). Upon hearing the news, many citizens expressed a strong desire to create a sacred place where their spirits could be worshipped and their legacy cherished for generations to come.
That sincere wish led to the founding of Meiji Jingu, and on November 1, 1920 (Taisho 9), a special ceremony was held to mark its official establishment.

The Story Behind Meiji Jingu and the Forest of Yoyogi

Meiji Jingu was built within the forest of Yoyogi—a place that’s far more than just trees. It’s a space filled with history, philosophy, and deep intention.
The name “Yoyogi” is said to come from a massive fir tree that once stood in the area. Back in the Edo period, this giant tree was so tall it could be seen from far away, and it became a local symbol. Later, during the Meiji era, the land became imperial property.

The Vision of an “Eternal Forest”

After the passing of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the decision was made to build a shrine in their honor. Yoyogi, being imperial land, was chosen as the site. But the forest surrounding the shrine wasn’t meant to be just a natural grove—it was designed as an “eternal forest,” a man-made woodland that would grow and evolve over hundreds, even thousands of years.
To make this vision a reality, forestry experts like Seiroku Honda, Taketoku Hongo, and Keiji Uehara were brought together to create a detailed plan for the forest’s long-term sustainability.

Trees from Across Japan and Thousands of Volunteers

The shrine grounds span about 700,000 square meters, and most of the forest was planted with around 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan. During construction, over 110,000 young volunteers helped with planting and building the pathways, pouring their energy and spirit into the project.
The forest was designed with evergreen broadleaf trees, allowing it to maintain itself naturally over time without constant human upkeep. Thanks to this thoughtful planning, the forest has flourished.

A Living Legacy in the Heart of the City

Now, more than 100 years since its founding, the forest of Yoyogi has grown into a rich, natural woodland. It’s become a beloved oasis in the middle of Tokyo, offering peace and greenery to countless visitors.
Though it’s technically a man-made forest, its thriving ecosystem rivals that of untouched nature. It’s even considered academically valuable for its biodiversity and design.
Yoyogi’s forest is a symbol of national devotion—built through careful planning, generous tree donations, and the hard work of volunteers. It’s not just a forest, but a unique fusion of modern history, ecological vision, and spiritual care. A truly one-of-a-kind place in Japan.

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Enshrined Deities of Meiji Jingu

At Meiji Jingu, the main deities enshrined are Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the imperial couple who played a key role in shaping modern Japan.

Emperor Meiji

Born on November 3, 1852, in Kyoto as the second son of Emperor Kōmei, Emperor Meiji ascended the throne at the age of 16 as Japan’s 122nd emperor.
He had a deep love for learning and devoted himself to study throughout his life. Under his leadership, Japan underwent the dramatic transformation known as the Meiji Restoration. He laid the foundation for Japan as a modern nation, promoting major reforms such as the Charter Oath of 1868 and the establishment of the Meiji Constitution.

The Charter Oath was a declaration of Japan’s new direction, pledging to build a modern, inclusive society. It’s considered a cornerstone of Japan’s democratic ideals.

Emperor Meiji was known not only for his strong and decisive character but also for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. He was a passionate poet, composing over 93,000 waka poems during his lifetime.
He passed away on July 30, 1912, at the age of 61, and was laid to rest at Fushimi Momoyama Mausoleum in Kyoto. His spirit was later enshrined at Meiji Jingu in 1920.

Empress Shoken

Empress Shoken was born in 1850 in Kyoto as the third daughter of Tadaaka Ichijō, a high-ranking court noble. She became empress on December 28, 1868.
From a young age, she was admired for her intelligence, grace, and exemplary character. She pursued her studies diligently and continued her education even after marriage.

Empress Shoken made significant contributions to society, especially in the fields of welfare and women’s education. She supported the Japanese Red Cross and helped establish schools for noblewomen and female teachers—institutions that later became Gakushuin Girls’ School and Ochanomizu University.

She passed away on April 11, 1914, just two years after Emperor Meiji, and was also buried at Fushimi Momoyama Mausoleum. Her spirit was enshrined at Meiji Jingu alongside Emperor Meiji in 1920.

Blessings and Spiritual Virtues of Meiji Jingu

Many people visit Meiji Jingu to seek blessings inspired by the harmonious relationship between Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

• Marital Harmony & Family Safety
  Because the imperial couple were known for their loving and respectful relationship, Meiji Jingu is believed to offer blessings for happy marriages and peaceful households.
• Prayers for Peace
  Emperor Meiji devoted himself to Japan’s development with a strong wish for peace. Visitors often come to pray for harmony in society and the world.
• Academic Success
  Empress Shoken was deeply committed to advancing women’s education. That legacy makes Meiji Jingu a popular place to pray for success in studies and learning.
• Matchmaking & Love
  Inside the shrine grounds stands a pair of sacred camphor trees known as the “Married Couple Trees.” They’re considered a powerful spot for blessings related to love, marriage, and strong relationships.

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Highlights & Power Spots of Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu is full of fascinating places to explore, and several of them are known as spiritual “power spots.” Here are some of the main highlights you won’t want to miss.

The Eight Torii Gates

Meiji Jingu features a total of eight torii gates, all built in the traditional “Myojin Torii” style using Japanese cypress (hinoki). These gates are recognizable by their upward-curving top crossbeam, known as the kasagi.
Among them, the second torii—also called the “Great Torii”—is especially impressive and serves as a symbolic icon of Meiji Jingu.

1. First Torii (South Approach)
   Located at the entrance to the South Approach, this large hinoki gate is the first one you’ll see when coming from the Harajuku side. It marks the beginning of the shrine path. The current gate was rebuilt in 2022 to commemorate the shrine’s 100th anniversary.
2. Second Torii (Great Torii)
   Standing at the junction of the South and North Approaches, this gate marks the entrance to the main path leading to the shrine’s inner sanctuary.
   It’s one of the largest wooden Myojin-style torii in Japan, made from 1,500-year-old Taiwanese cypress.
   Dimensions: 12 meters tall, 1.2 meters in pillar diameter, 17 meters wide across the top beam, and weighs 13 tons.
3. North Approach Torii
   Located at the entrance of the North Approach. Like the First Torii, it’s a wooden Myojin-style gate.
4. West Approach Torii
   Found at the entrance of the West Approach. Also a wooden Myojin-style gate.
5. Treasure Museum Path Torii
   This gate stands along the path leading to the Treasure Museum. Built in the same traditional wooden style.
6. North Shinmon Gate Torii
   Located in front of the North Shinmon Gate. Wooden Myojin-style.
7. South Shinmon Gate Torii
   Located in front of the South Shinmon Gate. Wooden Myojin-style.
8. East Shinmon Gate Torii
   Located in front of the East Shinmon Gate. Wooden Myojin-style.

Pathways Through the Sacred Forest

Once you pass through the torii gate, you’ll enter the shrine’s approach path (sando). Despite being in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Jingu’s pathways are surrounded by deep greenery and filled with a serene, spiritual energy. If you listen closely, you’ll hear the rustling of leaves and birdsong.
The photo above shows the South Approach, but there are also North, West, and Central Approaches that lead visitors through different parts of the shrine grounds.

The “Masugata Corner” – A Lucky Turn

On the way from the Second Torii to the main hall, you’ll pass a unique corner known as the “Masugata.” In Japanese culture, the number 8 is considered lucky, so instead of a sharp 90-degree angle, this corner was intentionally designed at 88 degrees to symbolize prosperity and expansion.
It’s believed that walking through this corner brings good fortune, making it one of Meiji Jingu’s hidden power spots.

South Shinmon Gate – A Grand Entrance

This majestic gate stands at the front of the main path leading to the shrine’s inner sanctuary. Unlike the East and West gates, the South Gate is a two-story structure built in the traditional “rōmon” style.
Crafted from beautiful hinoki cypress, the gate features the imperial chrysanthemum crest on its central doors. Passing through it feels like stepping into a truly sacred space.

Main Shrine (Honden) – Center of Worship

The heart of Meiji Jingu, where Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken are enshrined. Visitors come here to offer gratitude and prayers, and many believe they receive spiritual energy in return.
Flanked by two large camphor trees, the main hall is also considered a power spot. It’s a place of quiet reflection and deep reverence.

• Founded: November 1, 1920 (Taisho 9)
• Rebuilt: October 1958, after being destroyed in the 1945 Tokyo air raids
• Architecture: Built in the “Sanken-sha Nagare-zukuri” style, featuring three front pillars and a gracefully curved roof
• Materials: Mainly hinoki cypress, with a warm and dignified feel
• Design Philosophy: Simple and modest, reflecting the frugal spirit of the imperial couple

The entire shrine blends beautifully into its natural surroundings, creating a peaceful and solemn atmosphere for worship.

Married Couple Camphor Trees – A Beloved Power Spot

To the left of the main hall stands a pair of sacred camphor trees known as the “Meoto Kusunoki” (Married Couple Trees). Planted during the shrine’s founding in 1920, they’re tied together with a shimenawa (sacred rope) and symbolize love, harmony, and connection.
Visitors often pray here after visiting the main hall—especially those seeking romantic blessings or hoping to strengthen their relationships.
Please refrain from touching the trees directly, as they are sacred.

Turtle Stone – A Symbol of Longevity and Fortune

Located near the North Pond in the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden, the Turtle Stone is a large rock shaped like a turtle. It’s been revered for generations and is considered a powerful spiritual spot.
Touching the stone is said to bring blessings, especially from the “head” area. It’s believed to promote health, long life, and even success in work and finances—since turtles are symbols of good fortune in feng shui.

Treasure Museum – A Cultural Landmark

The Meiji Jingu Treasure Museum was built to house and display items related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It was Japan’s first reinforced concrete museum and is now a designated Important Cultural Property.

• Completed: 1921
• Architect: Shintaro Oe
• Style: Inspired by the ancient Shosoin storehouse in Nara, using a unique azekura-style design

In 2020, many of the imperial artifacts were moved to the newly opened Meiji Jingu Museum. The Treasure Museum is now open only during limited periods.

Meiji Jingu Museum – A Modern Tribute

Opened on October 26, 2019, to commemorate the shrine’s 100th anniversary, the Meiji Jingu Museum was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Its elegant design blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
Inside, you’ll find personal items once used by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken—books, carriages, daily tools, and more. The museum offers a deeper understanding of their lives and the cultural legacy of Meiji Jingu.

Kaguraden – Hall of Sacred Ceremonies

The Kaguraden is where various rituals and ceremonies are held, including prayers for family safety, purification rites, Shichi-Go-San (children’s blessings), and weddings.
Designed by architect Yoshichika Uchida, the hall combines traditional aesthetics with modern engineering. It’s a space where ancient customs meet contemporary craftsmanship.

Meiji Jingu Inner Garden (Gyoen)

Located on the southern side of Meiji Jingu, the Inner Garden is a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush nature—perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Back in the early Edo period, the garden was part of the residence of famous warlord Kato Kiyomasa, and later the Ii family. During the Meiji era, it became imperial property and was known as “Yoyogi Gyoen,” a place frequently visited by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
The current garden was landscaped by Emperor Meiji for Empress Shoken, using the natural terrain to create gentle hills and seasonal beauty. Throughout the year, you can enjoy blooming flowers and tranquil scenery.
Inside the garden, you’ll find several highlights including Kiyomasa’s Well, the Turtle Stone, the Iris Garden, Kakuntei (a teahouse), and the Imperial Fishing Platform.

• Admission: ¥500 (maintenance contribution)
• Hours:
  March–October: 9:00–16:30
  November–February: 9:00–16:00
  June: 8:00–17:00 (weekends until 18:00)

Check Meiji Jingu’s official website for seasonal closures.

Kakuntei – The Imperial Teahouse

Kakuntei is a charming wooden building built by Emperor Meiji in 1900 as a resting place for Empress Shoken. Though it was destroyed during wartime, it was beautifully rebuilt in 1958.
Designed in the sukiya style (traditional teahouse architecture), it features elegant simplicity and refined details. Inside, you’ll find a formal sitting room and decorative glass panels.
From Kakuntei, you can enjoy views of the lawn planted with azaleas and the South Pond—one of Empress Shoken’s favorite spots.

Iris Garden

The Iris Garden is one of the most beloved features of the Inner Garden. It’s said that Emperor Meiji had it planted in 1903 for Empress Shoken.
Originally home to around 80 Edo-style iris varieties, the garden now boasts about 150 types and 1,500 plants. It’s a place where the deep bond between the imperial couple is still felt and cherished.
The garden paths are designed so you can admire the irises from different angles. Peak bloom is usually from late May to late June, but timing may vary depending on the weather.

Imperial Fishing Platform (Otsuridai)

This wooden platform extends into the South Pond and was built by Emperor Meiji so Empress Shoken could enjoy fishing. The pond was stocked with carp and crucian carp for her enjoyment, and these fish still live there today.
If you visit the pond, take a moment to look for them—it’s a quiet, nostalgic spot with a personal touch from the imperial couple.

Kiyomasa’s Well – A Famous Power Spot

Located within the Inner Garden, Kiyomasa’s Well is one of Tokyo’s most well-known spiritual spots. Legend says it was dug by warlord Kato Kiyomasa.
The water stays at a steady 15°C year-round, with a flow of about 60 liters per minute. In feng shui, the well is said to sit on a “dragon vein” connecting Mt. Fuji to the Imperial Palace, and is considered a “dragon hole” where energy flows out.
It’s believed to purify negative energy and boost good fortune—especially financial luck. Many people even use photos of the well as their phone wallpaper to attract positive vibes.

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Goshuin at Meiji Jingu

You can receive a goshuin (shrine seal stamp) at the Nagadō Hall in front of the Kaguraden for a fee of ¥500. Both handwritten stamps and pre-written sheets are available.

On my visit to Meiji Jingu on Saturday, March 15, 2025 (Reiwa 7), I received a beautifully handwritten goshuin as a special keepsake.

What made this goshuin especially unique was the inclusion of the term “Kōki” (皇紀) next to the word “Hōhai” (奉拝). “Kōki” refers to Japan’s traditional calendar system, which starts from the year Emperor Jimmu—the first emperor—ascended the throne. According to this system, the year 2025 (Reiwa 7) is Kōki 2685.

Since it was a weekend, there was a long line of visitors waiting to receive goshuin—I waited about 40 minutes. What struck me most was the number of international visitors, many of them holding goshuin books and patiently waiting in line.

It was heartwarming to see that collecting goshuin as a token of worship and memory is becoming popular among people from overseas. It also made me feel proud as a Japanese person to see such respect being shown toward a shrine that honors the Emperor and Empress—symbols of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Access Information

From Nearby Stations

• JR Yamanote Line:
  Get off at Harajuku Station or Yoyogi Station — Meiji Jingu is just a short walk away.
• Tokyo Metro Chiyoda & Fukutoshin Lines:
  Get off at Meiji-Jingumae Station — the shrine is right nearby.
• Odakyu Odawara Line:
  Get off at Sangubashi Station — about a 3-minute walk to the shrine.

Walking Routes

• From Harajuku Station:
  Exit toward Omotesando and head into the South Approach of Meiji Jingu.
• From Yoyogi Station:
  Walk through the quiet streets toward the West Approach entrance.
• From Meiji-Jingumae Station:
  Use Exit 1 or 2 and walk straight into the South Approach.
• From Sangubashi Station:
  Head east toward the North Approach — great for those arriving by car.

By Car
About 5 minutes from the Yoyogi Exit on the Shuto Expressway Route 4 (Shinjuku Line).

Final Thoughts

Meiji Jingu is more than just a shrine—it’s a place where history, nature, and spiritual energy come together in the heart of Tokyo. Built through the wishes of the people to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it offers a peaceful escape surrounded by the lush forest of Yoyogi.

From sacred spots like the Married Couple Trees and Kiyomasa’s Well to the majestic main hall and seasonal gardens, there’s so much to discover and feel.

Whether you’re looking for blessings, quiet reflection, or a deeper connection to Japan’s culture, Meiji Jingu is a truly special place worth visiting.

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