Today felt…different. After the neon rush of Shibuya and the bustling energy of Shinjuku, I needed a space to breathe, to connect with something deeper. And I found it at Meiji Jingu Shrine. It wasn’t just a sightseeing trip; it felt like a genuine cultural immersion.
### Entering Another World: The Nakamado (South Entrance)
The approach to Meiji Jingu is part of the experience. I opted for the Nakamado (south entrance), and it immediately felt different. The city noise faded as I walked under the towering torii gate marking the transition from the secular to the sacred. The path wound through a dense forest of trees, a gift from people all over Japan. It’s stunning. It’s hard to believe you’re still in the middle of Tokyo! The gravel path underfoot, the scent of cedar… it was instantly calming. Walking through that forest felt like a cleanse, preparing me for what lay ahead.
### The Sake Barrel Wall (Kazarizaka) – A Symbol of Prosperity
As I approached the main shrine grounds, I stumbled upon the Kazarizaka, a vibrant wall of sake barrels donated by breweries across Japan. They were huge, beautifully decorated, and totally Instagrammable, but it’s more than just a photo op. These barrels are an offering, a symbol of gratitude and prosperity, highlighting the important role sake plays in Japanese culture. It was fascinating to see the different designs and the dedication each brewery put into their contribution.
### A Glimpse into the Past: The Meiji Jingu Museum
I wasn’t planning on visiting the Meiji Jingu Museum, but I’m so glad I did. It’s small, but packed with fascinating artifacts related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Seeing the personal items – their clothes, writing materials, even the carriage they used – felt incredibly intimate, offering a poignant glimpse into their lives and the Meiji Restoration period. It really brought history to life and gave me a deeper appreciation for their impact on Japan.
### Standing Before Greatness: The Ōtorii Gate & Honden (Main Hall)
The Ōtorii gate, a massive wooden gate, marked the sacred precinct. It was truly awe-inspiring in its scale and simplicity. Beyond that lay the Honden (main hall), dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The architecture is classic nagare-zukuri style, simple but elegant. I watched as visitors approached the hall, bowed respectfully, and offered a coin. It was a beautiful display of reverence. I took a moment to simply be in that space, to soak in the atmosphere. The air was thick with history and a sense of peace. It felt incredibly humbling to be in the presence of such important figures.
### Cultural Reflections: More Than Just a Shrine
Meiji Jingu isn’t just a beautiful shrine; it’s a living testament to Japanese culture and spirituality. It’s a place where Shinto traditions are preserved and celebrated. The emphasis on harmony with nature, respect for ancestors, and the pursuit of purity are all deeply ingrained in the shrine’s design and rituals.
It struck me that visiting Meiji Jingu isn’t about ticking off a tourist attraction; it’s about engaging with a culture that values tradition, respect, and inner peace. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the chaos of modern life and reconnect with something deeper within yourself.
Pictures are fromhttps://minako.tw/mejijingu-tokyo/