Meiji Jingu Grand Shrine & Harajuku Sacred Forest

Category: Shinto Shrine & Urban Sacred Forest | Location: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557 (JR Harajuku Station)

Dedicated in 1920 to the divine spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, Meiji Jingu is Tokyo’s most revered Shinto shrine. Nestled within a tranquil 70-hectare forest of over 100,000 trees donated and hand-planted by citizens across Japan, it serves as a serene sanctuary right beside the energetic fashion avenues of Harajuku. Approaching along the gravel sando pathway, visitors pass beneath monumental Otorii gates crafted from 1,500-year-old Taiwanese hinoki cypress—the largest wooden myojin torii in Japan. Further along stands an eye-catching wall of decorative Kazaridaru sake barrels donated annually by sake brewers nationwide. Within the grand inner courtyard, visitors often encounter stately traditional Shinto wedding processions led by priests and miko shrine maidens, featuring brides in ceremonial white Shiromuku kimonos. The shrine opens daily from sunrise to sunset with free admission, situated just steps from JR Harajuku Station.