Meiji Jingu

Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine located in Yoyogi, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo. Established in 1920, it enshrines Emperor Meiji, the 122nd Emperor of Japan, and his consort, Empress Shoken. The shrine stands as both a sacred site and an important historical landmark.

Emperor Meiji passed away in 1912, followed by Empress Shoken in 1914. In the years that followed, a strong public movement emerged across Japan to honour their virtues and preserve their spiritual legacy. In response to this nationwide sentiment, Meiji Jingu was constructed as a place of remembrance and prayer.

One of Meiji Jingu’s most remarkable features is its vast forest, covering approximately 700,000 square meters. Although it appears ancient and natural today, this forest is entirely man-made.

To create what was envisioned as an “Eternal Forest”, experts in forestry gathered to plan a woodland that would sustain itself for centuries. About 100,000 trees, donated from all over Japan, were planted with the help of 110,000 volunteers. Rather than fast-growing conifers, evergreen broadleaf trees such as oak, camphor, and chinquapin were chosen to ensure long-term resilience—especially important in Tokyo’s polluted urban environment.

This decision proved wise. During the air raids of 1945, while many shrine buildings were destroyed by fire, the forest itself survived and even served as a refuge for civilians. The fire-resistant evergreen trees likely helped prevent further devastation.

Over time, the forest has matured through natural selection. While the number of trees has decreased, they have grown larger and stronger. Scientific surveys conducted for the shrine’s 50th and 100th anniversaries revealed a thriving ecosystem with nearly 3,000 species, including rare and endangered plants and animals. Meiji Jingu’s forest now stands as one of Tokyo’s most important green sanctuaries.

South of the main shrine lies the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden, originally part of feudal estates during the Edo period. In the Meiji era, Emperor Meiji had the garden redesigned as a walking garden to support Empress Shoken’s health.

Unlike formal Japanese gardens, the Inner Garden emphasises gentle paths, natural terrain, and simplicity. The iris garden, created under Emperor Meiji’s direction, now features around 150 varieties of iris in bloom. Visitors experience the garden gradually, discovering scenery along winding paths, bridges, and resting pavilions.

Within the garden are several notable features, including Kakuun-tei, a teahouse built for Empress Shoken; Kiyomasa’s Well, a renowned spring known for its constant flow and stable temperature; and the South Pond, whose surface reflects the surrounding greenery and attracts a variety of birdlife throughout the seasons. The garden also contains a small fishing platform where Empress Shoken once enjoyed angling, always releasing the fish back into the water, reflecting her gentle regard for nature.

Within the shrine grounds stands the Meiji Jingu Museum. Opened in 2019 as part of the shrine’s centennial commemorative projects, the museum preserves and exhibits items associated with Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma, the two-story building blends harmoniously with the surrounding forest through its gentle rooflines and use of natural materials. Inside, visitors can view imperial portraits, ceremonial vehicles, and rotating special exhibitions that provide deeper insight into the history of Meiji Jingu and its continuing rituals. The museum is closed on Thursdays, and an admission fee is required.

Since its founding, the shrine has served as a place of prayer for the prosperity of the Imperial Household, the development of Japan, and peace throughout the world. Throughout the year, Meiji Jingu hosts a wide range of festivals, rituals, and life-cycle events. From New Year’s visits, which draw millions of worshippers, to weddings, first shrine visits for infants, and prayers for health, safety, and protection, the shrine remains deeply connected to everyday Japanese life.