Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is in the heart of bustling Tokyo. It’s a place where time seems to slow down. The hum of the city fades into the gentle rustle of leaves. This sanctuary of Shinto tradition and natural beauty is nestled within a forest. It’s a hidden gem for photographers. Sake barrels, traditional architecture, and torii gates set the scene for stunning shots. So much is waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore this unforgettable destination!
I couldn’t believe I had entered a forest, the first time I went. Walking through 100,000 trees (no exaggeration) was quite an experience. It took about 10 minutes, from the front torii, past the famous sake barrels, to get to the main halls. Even if you go there in summer, the heat won’t be unbearable as the leaves and branches give relief from Tokyo’s harsh sun.
It’s hard to believe that Harajuku, the world leader in pop culture, is just across the road. This harmony of two opposite worlds—the sacred and the trendy—is what makes the experience so surreal. One friend, on his first visit to Meiji Shrine, said the experience was surreal. So did I on my first visit. I hope others feel the same. Let’s explore it.
Iconic Photo Spots at Meiji Shrine
The Inner Garden & Kiyomasa's Well
Deep in the forest lies the Inner Garden, a serene world of its own that requires a separate entrance fee. It’s famous for the iris field and Kiyomasa’s Well. For the iris field (best in June), get low to make the flowers fill the frame. At Kiyomasa’s Well, tripods are not allowed, so try bracing your camera on a stable surface. To capture the clear water, a polarizing filter is your best friend for cutting through reflections.
The wall of sake & wine barrels
Near the main entrance is the iconic display of colorful sake barrels (a donation from brewers across Japan). Opposite them are barrels of Burgundy wine from France. They are best photographed in the morning light before the crowds arrive. Use a telephoto lens to isolate a few interesting barrels, or go wide to show the entire impressive display.
The main shrine complex
The heart of the shrine is the Haiden (offering hall) and Honden (main hall). They were made with Japanese cypress and copper in the traditional nagare-zukuri style. The elegant, sloping roof is a key feature to capture, so use a wide-angle lens to set it against the sky. To photograph the intricate details, respectfully wait for worshippers to finish their prayers. Once they are gone, use a zoom lens to capture the wooden carvings and gold embellishments.
The grand torii gates
You’ll pass through several massive wooden torii gates on your walk through the forest. The main one near Harajuku Station is one of the largest in Japan. To capture its immense scale, use a wide-angle lens and try shooting from a low angle for a more dramatic perspective. Also, use the gates to frame a shot looking down the long, forested path.
Meiji Shrine seasonal guide
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms, azaleas.
- Summer (June-August): The famous irises, Tanabata festival.
- Autumn (September-November): Chrysanthemum displays, Autumn Grand Festival, Yabusame (horseback archery).
- Winter (December-February): Serene winter light, and the massive Hatsumode (New Year’s) crowds, Setsubun (Bean Throwing Festival).
Check the shrine’s website for details (link below).
Photograph a traditional wedding
Meiji Shrine’s wedding processions are famous. Couples in colorful kimonos and hakamas make for superb photos. While they can happen on any day (depending on the Rokuyo calendar), you have a great chance of seeing one on a weekend morning.
Before and after the ceremonies, they cross the courtyard in front of the main hall. The bride and groom, parents, and guests walk in order of importance, following the priest and Miko. Visitors crowd the route to take pictures of it. Read about them in this article.
A brief history of the shrine
Dedicated in 1920 to the late Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine was built on the site of an iris garden the couple adored. Designed by Chuta Ito in the traditional nagare-zukuri style, it was a massive public effort. Though the original buildings were lost in WWII air raids, public fundraising allowed the shrine to be rebuilt. It stands today as a symbol of resilience and respect.
Nearby photo spots
- Miyamasumitake Shrine (a tiny shrine near Shibuya Station)
- Rockabilly dance groups (next door at Yoyogi Park)
- Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (a department store’s mirror-filled entrance)
- Yoyogi Park
Conclusion
Meiji Shrine is a great Tokyo tourist attraction. It should be on every photographer’s list of places to visit in Japan. There is much to see and do. Check out those wedding processions!
The real bonus for this place is that Yoyogi Park, Harajuku, and Shibuya are close. If you went on a Sunday, you could fill an entire day with many great things to do. And most importantly, they would all be picture-worthy! Leave questions and comments below.
F.A.Q. - Visiting Meiji Shrine
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: The shrine opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, so hours change monthly. Always check the official website before you go.
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entering the main shrine grounds is free. However, there is a small fee (500 yen) to enter the Inner Garden (Meiji Jingu Gyoen), where the irises and Kiyomasa’s Well are located.
Q: How do I get there?
A: The easiest way is via the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The main entrance is just a one-minute walk from the station’s west exit.
Q: When is the best time to see a wedding?
A: You have a good chance of seeing a traditional Shinto wedding procession on most weekends. They are most common between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More shrine articles
External related links
- A procession of Archers – Meiji Shrine
- Meiji Shrine (official website)