Outline

Built in the ninth year of Taisho period (1920), Meiji Jingu Shrine is recently a popular place where people visit to absorb the mystical energy, the shrine is said to emit.
In the first place, Meiji Jingu was built to worship the Meiji Emperor and Shoukenkoutaigou (Empress dowager).
While it is right beside Harajuku, the trendy city filled with young people, it has a very calm and solemn atmosphere.

On New Year’s Day, it is packed with people that visit the shrine for “Omairi”, to wish for a fruitful year. Among all the shrines in the country, Meiji Jingu has the most visitors on this day!
Other than the shrine, there are many facilities in the grounds. Meiji Kinenkan, a venue that holds parties and weddings, is one of them.
The “Dohyo-iri” (entering the ring) ceremony of professional Sumo wrestling is also held at Meiji Jingu.

Admire the Torii gate, the barrier that divides the secular and holy worlds

There are many spots that you want to see on your visit to Meiji Jingu.
But first of all, stop by the Torii gate.
The wooden Torii is twelve meters tall. You will surely be impressed by the splendid, sturdily built Torii.
Torii is considered to be the entrance to the passage of the holy world of gods. This is why it is shaped like a gate.

Stop by Gyoen, the Imperial Garden, to see the beautiful iris and absorb the power of Kiyomasai

One of the many charms of Meiji Jingu is being able to enjoy the nature, right at the heart of the metropolis.
Gyoen is the perfect place for this. In June, you can admire the blooming iris. The beautiful gradation of white, blue and purple is spectacular. Let the peaceful scene purify your soul!

Kiyomasai, the spring water well inside Gyoen, is a popular attraction for Japanese visitors.
The rumor is that, taking a picture of the water and setting this as the wallpaper on your cell phone, will increase your luck. According to this story, it is preferred to visit Kiyomasai on a sunny morning!

Enjoy the scenery from the grove of the village shrine, Chinju no Mori

Unlike Gyoen, Chinju no Mori is free of charge for entry. You can admire the plants, as well as unusual animals and insects that inhabit the forest. It is the perfect example of an oasis within the city.
Although you can’t stroll around freely, the designated passage will take you on an enjoyable journey in the serene atmosphere.

Only at Meiji Jingu! Observe the dedication of wine or nihonsyu

One thing you will only be able to see at Meiji Jingu is the display of stocked wine.
As a matter of fact, the Meiji Emperor was known to be a lover of wine. To this day, wine is dedicated to the shrine in his honor. It is a sight unique to this shrine!

writer：Nozomi

Photos from
tabi.photo
ryo1216.blog