My family decided to spend four days in Japan. Hardly enough time to see everything but we managed to squeeze in as much sights as we could in the little time we had. It’s all good. The Meiji Shrine was our first stop.

A bustling metropolis of neon lights, skyscrapers, and crowded streets, might not be the first place you’d associate with tranquility. But tucked within this urban jungle lies the Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), a serene oasis. During this recent trip, I had the pleasure of visiting this iconic Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Dowager Shoken.

Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan, ascended to the throne in 1867 during the Meiji Restoration, a pivotal period when Japan transformed from a feudal society to a global power. His reign marked Japan’s rapid modernization, and the shrine commemorates his pivotal role in shaping the nation.

Completed in 1920, eight years after Emperor Meiji’s passing, the shrine stands as a testament to his legacy. Interestingly, the Meiji Shrine doesn’t house the emperor’s grave; that honor belongs to Fushimi-momoyama in Kyoto.

Meiji Shrine is conveniently located near Harajuku Station, a railway station in Shibuya, Tokyo. As you step through the massive torii (a traditional Japanese gate), the city’s cacophony fades, replaced by a tranquil forest. Over 100,000 trees, donated from all corners of Japan, create a lush green canopy.

A ten-minute walk from the torii leads you to the main complex. Here, you can participate in traditional Shinto activities, make offerings at the main hall, purchase charms, or write wishes on ema (wooden plaques).

I was amused by the barrels of sake flaunted along the walk path. I learned that these barrels are donated annually to the shrine by sake brewers all over Japan as an act of deep respect for the enshrined deities Meiji and Shoken.

There are other sights such as the Meiji Jingu Museum which houses treasures from the shrine’s collection and the Inner Garden that required an entrance fee. For time’s sake, I opted to skip these.

All in all, the Meiji Shrine was a nice visit. A cordial blend of tradition and serenity and a great escape from the bustling streets of Tokyo. I really enjoyed it!