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Meiji Shrine: The photographer’s guide
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. There’s so much more waiting to be discovered beyond the lens. Let’s journey together through the trails and traditions of this unforgettable destination!
I couldn’t believe I had entered a forest, the first time I went. Yes, the shrine is located in one! 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.
Some might find it hard to believe that Harajuku is over the road from this serene, sacred place. The world leader in pop culture is next door! Two opposites right next to each other, in harmony. One friend, on his first visit to Meiji Shrine, said the experience was surreal. So did I on my first visit. I hope others will feel the same.
While you are walking the path into Meiji Shrine, you’ll be able to learn about its history. After you reach the second torii from the main entrance (i.e., Harajuku side), there are a series of billboards with pictures on the left. They come from various points during the complex’s history. Everything on them is in Japanese and English. I doubt a native English speaker wrote them, but they are an excellent source of information.
A Brief History of Meiji Shrine
The Japanese government passed a resolution when the Meiji Emperor died in 1912. It commemorated his role in Imperial rule restoration. They decided to build a shrine for him and his wife (Empress Shoken). They chose the area near Harajuku, with an iris garden the Imperial couple often visited. By the way, this garden is still there and is very beautiful. You should see it in summer when those flowers bloom.
Some facts about the construction of the shrine
- Chuta Ito was the designer, and construction began in 1915.
- The builders chose Japanese cypress and copper as their materials. They built it in the traditional nagare-zukuri style.
- Youth groups and civic associations contributed to labor and funding.
- Meiji Shrine was dedicated in 1920 but not completed until 1921.
- The grounds were finished in 1926.
- Until 1946, it was a Kanpei-Taisha (shrines that received huge government support).
The air raids of WW2 destroyed many of the shrine’s buildings. Luckily, the Homotsuden (Meiji Jingu Treasure Museum) escaped destruction. After the war, there was a public fundraising effort to reconstruct everything. That was completed in 1958.
Why do photographers like Meiji Shrine?
- There are many flowers. Spring has cherry blossoms in spring and summer has Japanese irises. Chrysanthemums bloom in autumn.
- Kiyomasa’s Well in the Inner Garden.
- There are two museums.
- Sake (and wine) barrels (found near the main entrance).
- Shiseikan (martial arts training center).
- Shrine architecture.
- Torii gates (maybe the biggest in Tokyo).
Wedding photography at Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is famous for its weddings. With couples in colorful kimonos and hakamas, they make superb photos. Most weekends will have at least one. It depends on the calendar, though.
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. They are colorful and make for superb photos. Visitors crowd the route to take pictures of it. You can read about them in this article.
Events at the shrine
Meiji Shrine shrine has plenty of these. The biggest one would be New Year’s prayers. If you go there to pray, be ready for the biggest crowds in the world. It is a popular event in Tokyo!
- January – New Year’s Day (Hatsumode)
- February – Setsubun (Bean Throwing Festival)
- June – Iris field in bloom
- July – Tanabata (the Star Festival)
- November – Autumn Grand Festival (including Yabusame)
Check the shrine’s website for the complete list and full details.
When is the best time to visit the shrine?
This is a tricky question. Every season has something special, so it is hard to give a definitive answer. My choice is autumn with its Grand Festival and chrysanthemums. And there are more wedding processions.
But late spring and early summer, with azaleas and irises, are excellent. They are in the Inner Garden, deep in the forest. It’s a great Tokyo photo spot. Whenever I go, it feels like I’m entering a secret world with its must-visit serenity!
Where is Meiji Shrine?
It’s in Shibuya City. The closest stations are:
- Harajuku Station (Yamanote Line)
- Kita-Sando (Fukutoshin Line)
- Meij-Jingumae ‘Harajuku’ (Chiyodai and Fukutoshin Metro Lines)
- Sangubashi (Odaykyu Line)
Here is a map:
Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset.
Photo spots near Meiji Shrine
- Miyamasumitake Shrine
- Rockabilly dance groups (next door at Yoyogi Park)
- Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku mirrors
- 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 so much to see and do. You must 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!
External links for Meiji Shrine articles
- A procession of Archers – Meiji Shrine
- Meiji Shrine (official website)
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