It’s hard to believe such a peaceful place exists within one of the world’s largest cities. But here is Meiji-Jingu,the Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of two of the most important figures in Japan’s recent history,Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken,and it’s just a short walk from Harajuku station. There are several ways to enter the grounds (split into two major sections,Naien,the inner precinct,and Gaien,the outer),though Harajuku is the best,as the pathway into the forest leads visitors to a huge torii gate. These archways are the symbol of Japan,and rarely will you find one more majestic.
Leave time to bathe in the forests
The Meiji shrine is impressive,but it’s also very popular,with more than 3 million visitors a year,so it’s worth getting off the beaten paths and exploring the 70 hectares of forestland it’s set in. Those forests are made of 120,000 trees that were donated from all corners of Japan. Enjoy the chance to experience nature in the middle of such a large city,but also take time to visit the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery,which houses 80 large murals depicting the life of the Emperor.
Don’t barrel past the sake barrels
Pass the torii gate near Harajuku station and the path will lead you to a huge wall of more than 200 sake barrels. These traditional straw barrels were donated to the shrine by the most important sake breweries across Japan,as a show of respect to Emperor Meiji. Just around the corner,too,you’ll find a large collection of wine barrels from France,a sign of Emperor Meiji’s lasting legacy:the opening of Japan to the world.