Meiji Jingu Shrine Tours and Activities

Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine featuring religious elements
Meiji Jingu Shrine featuring a park
Meiji Jingu Shrine featuring street scenes, a temple or place of worship and heritage architecture


Set within a large park filled with thousands of trees from all over Japan, this shrine is dedicated to a much-loved emperor and offers tranquility to visitors.

Perhaps Tokyo’s most popular shrine, the Meiji Jingu Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who was Japan’s first leader following the overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is the site of numerous festivals, weddings and events throughout the year. Visit this beautiful shrine to appreciate its atmosphere, serene despite its popularity with locals and tourists. 

Enter the shrine grounds through the enormous 40-foot-tall (12-metre) torii gate, which is made of 1,500-year-old Japanese cypress. It’s about a 10-minute walk from here to the main complex of shrine buildings. Stop at the purification fountain just before the shrine’s entrance and use a ladle to wash your hands and mouth. 

The reign of Emperor Meiji from 1868-1912 was a significant period in Japan’s history, marking the end of the country’s feudal era and the beginning of a modern Japan. The shrine was built soon after this in 1920, but it was destroyed during the air raids of World War II. What you see today is a beautiful reconstruction, completed in 1958.

At the shrine, write prayers or wishes on pieces of paper and tie them onto the prayer wall or write your wish on a wooden plate, called an ema, and hang it on the prayer board found in front of the large camphor tree. You can also make a prayer by throwing a coin into the offering box. Remember to bow twice, clap your hands twice and bow again after adding your coin.  

Stroll along the quiet walking paths branching out from the shrine. The forest surrounding the shrine has more than 100,000 trees, planted as saplings brought from all over Japan during the shrine’s construction. View important belongings of the emperor and empress in the Treasure Museum found at the northern end of the shrine grounds. In mid-June, see irises in bloom in the Inner Garden at the grounds’ southern end.

Visit the shrine on a Sunday morning. If you’re lucky, you may see a traditional Shinto wedding procession taking place. The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a short walk away from Harajuku Station. The shrine is open daily from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.

Plan a trip to see Meiji Jingu Shrine

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Top Meiji Jingu Shrine Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main

4 out of 5
3-2-9 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

4 out of 5
1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier

Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier

4.5 out of 5
11-3, Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Tokyo
Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier
Shinjuku Washington Hotel Annex

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Annex

4 out of 5
3-2-9 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Shinjuku Washington Hotel Annex
Century Southern Tower Hotel

Century Southern Tower Hotel

4 out of 5
2-2-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Century Southern Tower Hotel
Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku

3.5 out of 5
2-3-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

4.5 out of 5
2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

4 out of 5
2-14-5 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Shinjuku

JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Shinjuku

4 out of 5
2-6-2 Yoyogi, Tokyo, Tokyo
JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Shinjuku
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Things to do near Meiji Jingu Shrine

While visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere by exploring nearby shopping venues and local sights. Don't miss the iconic Meiji Temple itself, along with other attractions that showcase the beauty of the area. Enjoy art exhibitions and theatrical performances that reflect Japan's rich culture, making your trip truly memorable.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, head to Omotesando Hills, only 1.3km from Meiji Jingu Shrine, where you can enjoy a mix of entertainment and family vibes. Roppongi Hills, 3.2km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere, while Ginza Wako Building, 6.4km distant, is perfect for unique finds.

Recreation

Tokyo Dome, located 6.4km from Meiji Jingu Shrine, offers an energetic sports atmosphere. For relaxation, LaQua Tokyo Dome City provides soothing body treatments. Just 1.6km away, Okubo Park presents a peaceful retreat with calming green spaces, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the tranquility of the Kitazawa River Trail, a scenic hiking path located 3.2km from Meiji Jingu Shrine, perfect for nature lovers. For thrill-seekers, the Tamagawa Speedboat Racecourse offers exhilarating water sports 17.7km away, while the Koshu Highway, 6.4km distant, is ideal for outdoor adventures.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Meiji Jingu Shrine offers a vibrant cultural experience. Enjoy captivating performances at the New National Theatre Tokyo, only 1.3km away, or catch an engaging show at Akasaka ACT Theatre and Tokyo National Theatre, both 3.2km away, perfect for family and romantic outings.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Meiji Jingu Shrine

Exploring Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo offers a delightful blend of culture and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy the serene urban park surrounding the shrine, delve into the spiritual ambiance of Meiji Shrine, and appreciate art at nearby museums. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a cultural insight, the area promises a rich experience just a short distance from the shrine itself.

  • Shibuya Crossing: Experience the vibrant energy of Shibuya Crossing, renowned for its bustling atmosphere. Located 1.6km from Meiji Jingu Shrine, this iconic intersection is a hub of family-friendly activities and outdoor vibes, where you can witness the organised chaos of hundreds crossing simultaneously.
  • Tokyo Tower: Just 4.8km away, Tokyo Tower stands as a symbol of modern Japan. With its striking design and panoramic city views, this tower captures the essence of Tokyo’s urban landscape, offering a unique blend of sightseeing and photo opportunities amidst the city vibes.
  • Tokyo Imperial Palace: Also 4.8km from the shrine, the Tokyo Imperial Palace is steeped in history and culture. Explore the beautiful gardens and serene surroundings, immersing yourself in Japan's rich heritage and tranquil atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Meiji Jingu Shrine

To save money on your visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and September for better hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and look out for last-minute deals on Expedia. Staying on a Tuesday can also save you money compared to weekends. Use Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities, and don’t forget to sort your options by price to snag the best rates and special offers.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Meiji Jingu Shrine are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Meiji Jingu Shrine is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Meiji Jingu Shrine is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Meiji Jingu Shrine is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near Meiji Jingu Shrine with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.