Self Guided Walking Tour of Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine was built to honor Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken (1849–1914). He was the 122nd Emperor of Japan, reigning from 1867 until his death in 1912. He was a pivotal figure in Japan’s history, presiding over the Meiji Restoration, a transformative period that marked Japan's transition from a feudal society to a modern, industrialized nation.
Purpose of the Shrine:
It was constructed to commemorate their virtues, achievements, and contributions to Japan’s modernization.
It also reflects the deep reverence the Japanese people felt for the Emperor and Empress, who symbolized the blending of tradition and progress.
When Was It Built?
The shrine was completed in 1920, eight years after Emperor Meiji’s death and six years after Empress Shōken’s passing.
Symbolism of the Shrine:
Emperor Meiji is enshrined not as a historical figure but as a kami (Shinto deity), which represents his spiritual essence. This is common in Shinto, where influential figures are deified.
Location:
The shrine was built in a forested area near Harajuku, chosen to provide a tranquil, sacred space that reflects Japan’s harmony with nature. Over 100,000 trees were donated from across Japan and overseas to create the lush forest surrounding the shrine
Key Achievements of Emperor Meiji:
End of Isolation (Sakoku):
Under his leadership, Japan opened its borders after centuries of isolation, signing treaties with Western nations and engaging with the global community.
Modernization and Industrialization:
Japan rapidly adopted Western technology, infrastructure, and practices, including railways, telegraph lines, and a modern military.
Political Reforms:
The Meiji Constitution (1889) established a parliamentary system, blending Western political ideas with Japan's traditions.
Feudal domains (han) were replaced with modern prefectures.
Education and Culture:
Promoted universal education and literacy and encouraged the study of western science and technology while preserving Japanese culture.
Supported the arts, blending traditional and modern aesthetics.
Symbol of Unity:
As Japan transformed into a centralized nation-state, Emperor Meiji became a unifying symbol of national identity and modernization.
Here’s a walking tour of Meiji Shrine:
1. The Grand Torii Gate
Start at: The massive wooden torii gate at the entrance, made from 1,500-year-old cypress trees from Taiwan.
Significance: Torii gates mark the boundary between the secular world and the sacred grounds of the shrine.
2. The Forest Pathway
What to see: Walk along the tranquil gravel path, surrounded by over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan.
Historical Note: The trees were planted in 1920 during the construction of the shrine to create an artificial forest. It’s now a serene natural escape in the heart of Tokyo.
3. Sake Barrels (Kazaridaru) and Wine Barrels
Location: Midway along the path, you’ll see decorative displays of sake barrels on one side and French wine barrels on the other.
Significance:
The sake barrels are offerings to the shrine from sake brewers around Japan, symbolizing the connection between the shrine and Japanese tradition.
The wine barrels were donated by wineries in Burgundy, France, reflecting Emperor Meiji’s openness to Western culture.
4. Temizuya (Purification Fountain)
What it is: Before approaching the shrine itself, stop at the temizuya to purify yourself. (If that feels comfortable to you.)
How to use it:
Take the ladle with your right hand and pour water onto your left hand.
Switch hands and pour water onto your right hand.
Rinse your mouth (do not drink from the ladle directly) and spit the water into the trough.
Finally, rinse the ladle.
Significance: This ritual cleanses your mind and body before offering prayers.
5. The Main Shrine Building (Honden)
What to do:
Walk up to the main hall and bow slightly before entering the shrine’s front courtyard.
Offer a prayer by following this ritual:
Throw a coin into the offering box (usually a 5-yen coin for good luck).
Bow deeply twice.
Clap your hands twice.
Bow deeply once more.
Historical Significance: Built in honor of Emperor Meiji (who modernized Japan) and Empress Shōken, the shrine represents gratitude for their contributions.
6. Ema (Wish Plaques)
What to do: Visit the Ema board near the main hall, where visitors write their wishes on small wooden plaques.
Significance: These plaques are dedicated to the shrine’s deities and reflect a mix of personal hopes and prayers for world peace.
Tip: Read some wishes left by visitors from around the world—it’s a beautiful insight into global dreams and unity.
7. Meiji Jingu Inner Garden (Gyoen)
Optional detour: Visit this serene garden, a favorite spot of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
Highlights:
The Iris Garden, which blooms in June.
Kiyomasa’s Well, a natural spring considered a power spot for spiritual energy.
Tip: There’s a small fee to enter the garden, but it’s worth it if you enjoy peaceful strolls.
8. Treasure Museum
Location: Near the shrine grounds, the museum displays personal belongings of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
What to see: Artifacts and writings that showcase their lives and vision for modern Japan.
Historical Insight: Emperor Meiji’s reign (1867–1912) marked the Meiji Restoration, when Japan rapidly adopted Western advancements while preserving its traditions.
9. Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
Key Events:
New Year (Hatsumode): One of the busiest times, when millions visit to pray for blessings.
Spring and Autumn Festivals: Traditional music, dance, and Shinto rituals.
Seasonal Beauty:
Spring: Cherry blossoms around the shrine.
Autumn: Golden leaves from the gingko trees.
After your visit, leave the shrine through the main gate next to Harajuku Station to continue with this itinerary.