Meiji Shrine
Shrine Shinto shrine surrounded by tranquil forested grounds
Meiji Shrine sits in a planted forest near Harajuku; visitors attend Shinto ceremonies, walk broad gravel paths and then cross into nearby Takeshita Street for youth fashion and cafés.
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Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine in central Tokyo dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, established following the emperor’s death and formally completed in 1920. The shrine is set within a large planted forest and is one of Tokyo’s principal religious sites.
The complex includes the main hall and offering areas, a collection of donated torii gates and forested walking paths covering a substantial green space that separates the shrine from the surrounding urban neighbourhood. Visitors come for shrine rituals, seasonal festivals and to experience the forested approach.
The shrine was built in the early 20th century to enshrine Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken; many of the original structures were damaged during World War II and major restorations and rebuilds occurred in the mid-20th century. The forested grounds were created from trees donated from across Japan.
Meiji Shrine sits in the Shibuya/Harajuku area of central Tokyo, immediately adjacent to Yoyogi Park and a short walk from Harajuku Station. The site provides a large green contrast to the neighbouring shopping and entertainment districts.
- Best visiting times: Early morning or late afternoon visits provide quieter paths through the forested precincts and better lighting for photos of the shrine's main buildings.
- Practical note: Visitors may see traditional Shinto ceremonies and can purchase ema plaques or write wishes at the shrine's votive boards.
How to Get to Meiji Shrine #
Meiji Shrine is beside Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line); exit at Harajuku (Harajuku/Omotesandō entrances) and the shrine’s main (south) gate is a 1-5 minute walk through the tree-lined approach. Alternatively use Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines (also immediate access). It’s in central Tokyo and a short train ride from major hubs (10-20 minutes from Tokyo/Shinjuku by rail).
Tips for Visiting Meiji Shrine #
- Go first thing in the morning (before 9:00) through the Harajuku Station entrance to enjoy the shrine's forested approach and the clearest sense of tranquility before crowds arrive.
- For a quieter experience and different access, enter from the Yoyogi Park side (north gate) where fewer tourists start their visit; it's also a good approach if you're combining the shrine with a Yoyogi Park walk.
- Don't miss the Inner Garden (Meiji Jingu Gyoen) and the serene Meiji Shrine gardens-these paid garden areas and side paths are frequently skipped by visitors who only see the main shrine.
Best Time to Visit Meiji Shrine #
Best in spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for foliage; expect heavier crowds on weekends and around New Year's for traditional visits.
Weather & Climate near Meiji Shrine #
Meiji Shrine's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1461 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (181 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (160 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (162 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (206 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (170 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).
