Meiji Jingu
Surrounded by forest, this venerable Shinto shrine features a seasonal iris garden.
Meiji Jingu is rated 4.7 / 5 from 54,115 Google reviews and sits about 1.8 km (22 min walk) from Shinjuku station.
General overview
About Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu is a major Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, set in a large forested sanctuary beside Harajuku and Yoyogi. It is known for its broad gravel approaches, giant torii gates, seasonal festivals, traditional ceremonies, and peaceful woodland atmosphere. Admission to the shrine grounds is generally free.
- Forest-covered shrine grounds in central Tokyo
- Large wooden torii gates, including the main southern entrance gate
- Main shrine complex, or honden, with traditional Shinto architecture
- Sake-barrel and wine-barrel displays along the approach
- Traditional weddings and Shinto ceremonies, when visible to visitors
- New Year hatsumōde celebrations, one of Japan’s most popular shrine visits
- Easy access from Harajuku, Meiji-jingumae, and Yoyogi stations
Things to do here
Visit the main shrine
Walk through the forested approach to the main shrine buildings, observe the worship area, and experience a major active Shinto shrine in Tokyo.
Walk through the shrine forest
The broad paths through the grounds provide a quiet escape from the surrounding city. Wear comfortable shoes because the approaches are long and may be gravelly.
Observe Shinto customs
Visitors can make a respectful bow at the torii, purify at the temizuya when operating, offer a coin, bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more. Participation is optional.
See ceremonial activity
Traditional weddings and other rituals may take place, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors should observe quietly and avoid obstructing ceremonies.
Visit the Meiji Jingu Museum
The nearby museum presents objects associated with the imperial couple and the shrine. It is a separate attraction with separate admission and opening arrangements.
Visit the Inner Garden
The shrine’s seasonal inner garden is associated with iris blooms and historical connections to Empress Shōken. It has traditionally required a separate admission fee.
The Harajuku entrance is convenient from JR Harajuku Station and Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Station. Yoyogi and Kita-sando entrances are alternatives. Allow extra walking time from the station because the shrine buildings are deep inside the grounds.
No advance booking is normally needed for a standard shrine visit. Check the official website for museum tickets, special events, ceremonies, or temporary restrictions.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Watch first
Video
POV: ☆First time in tokyo? An incredible shrine named Meiji Jingu near Shibuya,Tokyo. ⛩ · Zed | Japan Culture Guide (YouTube)
Most asked
How to reach
Meiji Jingu is about 1.8 km (~22 min walk) from Shinjuku station on the Tokyo Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Meiji Jingu from Shinjuku station?
Meiji Jingu is about 1764 m (roughly 22 min walk) from Shinjuku station on the Tokyo Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Meiji Jingu rated?
Meiji Jingu has a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 54,115 reviews.
What's near Meiji Jingu?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Omoide Yokocho Memory Lane, Haidilao Shinjuku Branch, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku.
Is Meiji Jingu wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Meiji Jingu: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Is Meiji Jingu free to enter?
Yes. General access to the main shrine grounds is normally free. The Inner Garden and Meiji Jingu Museum are separate attractions and may charge admission.
How long should I spend at Meiji Jingu?
Allow about 1.5–3 hours for a relaxed visit to the main shrine and forested approach. Add more time if visiting the museum or Inner Garden.
What is the best entrance?
The southern entrance near Harajuku and Meiji-jingumae is the most popular and convenient for first-time visitors. Yoyogi and Kita-sando entrances can be useful alternatives.
Can I take photos?
Outdoor photography is generally allowed, but be respectful around worshippers and ceremonies. Follow signs and staff instructions, especially near the main shrine and wedding processions.
Can I see a Japanese wedding there?
Possibly. Meiji Jingu is a popular venue for Shinto weddings, particularly on weekends, but ceremonies are not guaranteed and should be observed from a respectful distance.
Is Meiji Jingu suitable for children?
Yes, but the grounds involve considerable walking on gravel and forest paths. Strollers may be less convenient on some routes.
When is it busiest?
The shrine is especially busy during hatsumōde around New Year, on weekends, public holidays, and during major festivals. Early weekday mornings are usually calmer.
What should I wear or do when visiting?
Wear comfortable shoes and modest, respectful clothing. Bow lightly when passing through a torii, stay on designated paths, and avoid eating or behaving noisily near worship areas.
Are there English explanations?
Some signs and visitor information may be available in English, but coverage can vary. The official website and shrine staff may provide current visitor information.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated October 27, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.