Meiji Jingu is the shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, set in about 700,000 m² of planted forest right next to Harajuku. In the middle of the city you can walk in the stillness of a deep forest and experience Japanese shrine customs.
- Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo (near JR Harajuku and Meiji-jingumae stations)
- Coordinates: 35.6764, 139.6993
- Admission: Grounds free (Treasure Museum and Inner Garden separate)
- Best time: Early morning, for calm
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Route to the shrine
- Great torii: a huge wooden gate at the entrance; bow lightly before passing through
- Approach path: a forest path to the main shrine, lined with offered sake and wine barrels
- Temizuya: the basin for purifying hands and mouth
- Main shrine: bow twice, clap twice, bow once
Shrine etiquette
Bow lightly when passing a torii. The centre of the approach is considered the path of the gods, so walk at the edges. Rinse your hands and mouth at the temizuya, then pray quietly at the main shrine.
Nearby
- Takeshita Street, Harajuku: youth fashion and desserts
- Yoyogi Park: a large park next to the shrine
- Omotesando: luxury shops and cafés, within walking distance
Tips
- Early morning right after opening is the calmest, with the cleanest photos.
- With luck, you may see a traditional Shinto wedding procession.
- Works well as a half day with Harajuku and Yoyogi Park.
Meiji Jingu was created in 1920 in the heart of Tokyo as a shrine in a planted forest for the Emperor and Empress. Trees donated from across Japan have grown into a natural forest over 100 years, and it is a much-loved place to walk. The Inner Garden (separate admission) has the Kiyomasa Well and an iris garden, which is especially busy when the irises bloom in May and June. The entrance is a minute's walk from Harajuku Station, so it pairs easily with shopping on Takeshita Street.
FAQ
Is there an admission fee?
The grounds are free; the Treasure Museum and Inner Garden charge separately.
How do I pray?
At the main shrine, bow twice, clap twice and bow once.
Can I see a wedding?
Traditional wedding processions can sometimes be seen, for example at weekends.
Is it close to Harajuku?
Very; the entrance is next to Harajuku Station.
When is it quiet?
Early morning, right after opening.
Is there a dress code?
No specific rules, but quiet and respectful behaviour is expected.
Sources
- Japan National Tourism Organization (Travel Japan) · JNTO · accessed 2026-10-30
- Wikipedia: Meiji Shrine · Wikipedia · accessed 2026-05-23
Fees, opening hours and event schedules can change, so check official information before you visit.
Information was checked against the official sources listed above. Opening hours, fees and fares can change; please confirm with the venue or operator before you visit.