Meiji Shrine 🇯🇵

Meiji Shrine, situated in Shibuya, Tokyo, is a prominent Shinto site consecrated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Although dedicated to these historical figures, the emperor's actual grave is located at Fushimi-momoyama, south of Kyoto. Adjacent to Yoyogi Park, the shrine grounds form a sprawling forested space in the center of the city. Visitors enter the complex across the Jingu Bashi bridge, with entrances opening at sunrise and closing at sunset.

Following the death of Emperor Meiji in 1912, the Japanese Diet resolved to construct a shrine commemorating his role in the Meiji Restoration. An iris garden frequently visited by the imperial couple was selected as the building location, and construction commenced in 1915 under architect Itō Chūta. Built in the traditional nagare-zukuri style using copper and Japanese cypress, the national effort mobilized youth groups and civic associations for labor and funding. Materials and timber were brought from various regions, including Kiso, Taiwan, Karafuto, Korea, and Kwantung. Officially dedicated in November 1920, the original structures were destroyed during World War II air raids before being rebuilt through public donations in October 1958.

The surrounding woodland covers an area of 70 hectares and contains 120,000 trees across 365 species, all originally donated by people from across Japan. This expansive forest serves as a popular area for relaxation and recreation. The shrine complex is split into two major sections: the Naien, or inner precinct, and the Gaien, or outer precinct. Within the Naien, visitors can view the main shrine structures and an Azekurazukuri-style treasure museum displaying personal items belonging to the Emperor and Empress.

The outer precinct contains the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, which houses 80 large murals depicting events from the lives of the Emperor and Empress. The Gaien also encompasses various athletic grounds, including national stadiums, as well as the historic Meiji Memorial Hall. Originally used for late 19th-century governmental discussions regarding the Meiji Constitution, the hall now accommodates Shinto weddings, meeting rentals, and dining services. A Tokyo Metropolitan Government plan approved in February 2023 outlines redevelopment for 28.4 hectares of the Gaien to build a new stadium, hotel, and skyscrapers.

Throughout the year, the shrine hosts numerous festivals and cultural displays featuring calligraphy, bonsai, ice carvings, suiseki, memory dolls, chrysanthemums, and dahlias. Ceremonial ring-entering demonstrations by grand sumo champions take place in January and during the Autumn Grand Festival. Held annually from October 31 to November 3, this autumn celebration includes traditional Bugaku performances and anniversary ceremonies honoring Emperor Meiji's birthday.

Meiji Shrine in pictures