“Lost in translation?” That’s probably what Emperor Meiji thought when modernizing Japan. Today we are standing before Meiji Jingu. It is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Emperor Meiji ascended to the throne in 1867. This marked the end of Japan’s feudal era. The emperor initiated the Meiji Restoration. Japan then modernized to join the world powers. Emperor Meiji died in 1912. His wife Empress Shoken died in 1914.
Meiji Jingu Shrine was constructed in their honor. It was built in the midst of a dense forest. The shrine was enshrined on November 1, 1920. Much of the shrine was destroyed in air raids during World War II. Most of what you see today dates to 1958. Meiji Jingu was rebuilt then.
The shrine lies in a large forest. It contains over 120000 trees. These trees were donated from regions across the entire country.
Meiji Jingu consists of shrine buildings inner and outer gardens and the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. You enter through two large gates called torii. These gates date back over 1700 years and bear the imperial seal.
Visiting Meiji Jingu is a peaceful experience. It is imbued with Japanese culture. Traditional tea ceremonies often take place here. Many wedding ceremonies are held here too. Meiji Jingu contrasts with the bustling city of Tokyo. Large crowds visit in early January and late October. This is when the Hatsu-mode and Autumn Grand Festivals are celebrated.
Meiji Jingu remains an active shrine. Purify yourself at the temizuya before the final torii. Pour water over your hands. Purity is important in Shinto Buddhism. You can make offerings at the shrine. Or you can purchase charms.
The gardens are accessible to the public. They are resplendent in June when the irises bloom. Meiji Jingu is one of Japan’s most popular shrines. Over three million visitors come for the year’s first prayers. This is more than any other shrine or temple in Japan.
Not far from the Harajuku entrance stands the Meiji Jingu Museum. It opened in 2019. Kuma Kengo designed it. The museum displays treasures from the shrine’s collection. These include personal belongings of the emperor and empress. You can also see the carriage the emperor rode in. He rode to the formal declaration of the Meiji Constitution in 1889.
The Inner Garden is in the southern section. There is an entrance fee to enter. The garden is popular in mid-June. Many irises bloom then. Kiyomasa’s Well is located in the garden. Military commander Kiyomasa dug it about 400 years ago. The emperor visited the well. It has become a spiritual power spot.
As you leave Meiji Jingu consider the blend of tradition and modernity. Emperor Meiji sought to bring to Japan. May your journey be filled with peace and discovery.