Hello everyone, have you ever visited Meiji Shrine in Tokyo? Meiji Shrine boasts the highest number of visitors in Japan, with an annual count of 3 million worshippers. Located in the bustling city, and in the heart of the youth culture hub Harajuku, Meiji Shrine is a historic shrine surrounded by vast natural beauty. Remarkably, it spans an area equivalent to 15 Tokyo Domes. Do you know why Meiji Shrine was built? Or what its highlights are? This time, we'll introduce the history, highlights, and some fun facts about Meiji Shrine, which are surprisingly not well-known.
History of Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a shrine built to enshrine Emperor Meiji, who passed away at the age of 59 in 1912, and Empress Shoken, who died two years later. After Emperor Meiji was buried in Aoyama, Tokyo, and Empress Shoken in Fushimi Momoyama in southern Kyoto, there was a growing call among the public to establish a shrine to honor their spirits. In response, the decision was made in 1915 to build Meiji Shrine in Yoyogi, Tokyo. Youth groups from all over the country participated in the construction, which took five years to complete, and the shrine was officially established on November 1, 1920.
However, during World War II, in April 1945, major buildings of Meiji Shrine, including the main hall, were destroyed by U.S. air raids. After the war, alongside Japan's reconstruction, there was a strong demand for the restoration of Meiji Shrine, with the sentiment that "Japan's recovery would not be complete without the restoration of Meiji Shrine." As a result, many donations were collected, and the current Meiji Shrine was rebuilt in 1958.
Further developments include the construction of the Kaguraden in 1993, commemorating the Emperor's Grand Ceremony of the Heisei era, and the construction of a new administration building in 2002, marking the 150th anniversary of Emperor Meiji's birth. Meiji Shrine continues to play a role as a spiritual home for the Japanese people and continues to evolve.
(Image Citation: 明治神宮公式HP)
Highlights of Meiji Shrine
Let's move on to the highlights of Meiji Shrine. As mentioned earlier, Meiji Shrine covers an area equivalent to 15 Tokyo Domes. Knowing the key highlights in advance will help make your visit smoother given its vastness. If you're planning to visit Meiji Shrine, please refer to this information!
Grand Torii Gate
Meiji Shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo, offers a tranquil and green space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The massive Grand Torii Gate at its entrance leaves a strong impression on visitors and stands as an iconic symbol of this sacred place. The first Grand Torii was built in 1920, along with the establishment of Meiji Shrine, but the passage of time took its toll on this magnificent structure.
In 1966, the first Grand Torii suffered significant damage due to lightning strikes and aging, necessitating reconstruction. However, it was challenging to find sufficiently large cypress trees in Japan to support its enormous size. This problem was solved by discovering a grand tree over 1,500 years old in Taiwan. With the cooperation and exceptional efforts of the local people, the tree was transported to Japan and used to construct the second Grand Torii.
Completed in 1975, the second Grand Torii stands 12 meters tall, 17.1 meters wide, with pillars measuring 1.2 meters in diameter. These dimensions make it the largest wooden Myojin Torii in Japan, leaving a powerful impression on all who visit. Its presence goes beyond being just a gate, symbolizing not only the entrance to Meiji Shrine but also respect for Japanese tradition and nature.
Main Shrine Building
The Main Shrine Building of Meiji Shrine is located in the innermost area of the shrine and serves as the sacred place where the spirits are enshrined. Inside, priests conduct daily rituals solemnly, with the Oasagokurei-sai being held at 8 AM and 2 PM daily, offering sacred food and prayers to the deities. The main shrine and its surrounding buildings are constructed from beautiful Japanese cypress, with roofs covered in durable copper. The cypress used comes from the Kiso region of Nagano Prefecture, embodying the harmony of tradition and nature in Japanese shrine architecture.
The main shrine is built in the Nagare-zukuri style, which is popular in traditional Japanese shrine architecture. Its distinctive feature is the extended roof at the front, which covers the steps and extends further than the rear roof. This style enhances the grandeur and beauty of the shrine. Surrounding the main shrine are the Norito-den, Naihaiden, and Gehaiden, each forming a sacred space. The Gehaiden is particularly significant as it is the main place where worshippers come to pray.
The original main shrine, established in 1920, was destroyed in the fires of World War II, but the current building was completed in 1958. In the reconstructed main shrine, fire prevention measures include copper roofs instead of wooden bark. This innovation preserves the original architectural beauty while enhancing durability for the future.
Kiyomasa's Well
Nestled within the lush greenery of Meiji Shrine, which provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, lies the mystical Kiyomasa's Well, a place that attracts many visitors. This well, which produces an abundant flow of 60 liters of water per minute, is said to have been dug by the renowned samurai Kato Kiyomasa during the Sengoku period. Although the truth of this claim is uncertain, the pure and constant flow of water from this well is believed to purify bad energy and enhance good fortune, making it a valuable power spot for many.
It is particularly said that setting a photo of this well as the wallpaper on your mobile phone can enhance its effects, and many visitors hope to benefit from this belief. The path to Kiyomasa's Well is surrounded by the beautiful nature of Yoyogi Gyoen, and the irises planted by Emperor Meiji for Empress Shoken further enhance the scenery. In June, when the irises are in full bloom, their beauty captivates visitors. Visiting Kiyomasa's Well during this time offers a unique experience where natural beauty and historical significance merge.
However, there are a few points to keep in mind when visiting Kiyomasa's Well. It is said that visiting in the evening or on rainy days might attract bad energy, so it is best to visit on clear mornings. Additionally, after visiting Kiyomasa's Well, it is recommended to also visit the main shrine building of Meiji Shrine. This is believed to further increase good fortune and provide blessings for safe travels.
An admission fee of 500 yen is required as a "maintenance cooperation fee," but it is well worth it. Observing the pure flow of water from Kiyomasa's Well within the natural surroundings of Yoyogi Gyoen offers a perfect opportunity to calm your mind and refresh away from the noise of daily life.
(Image Citation: 東京湧水)
Meoto Kusu (Married Couple Trees)
The two camphor trees standing near the main shrine are known as the Meoto Kusu (Married Couple Trees), and they attract many visitors as a prominent power spot within Meiji Shrine. The two large camphor trees stand close together, creating a sacred space bound by a rope between them. This unique appearance has led to their name, "Meoto Kusu," symbolizing the bond between married couples and good relationships. In the lush greenery of Meiji Shrine, these camphor trees exude a particularly mystical atmosphere that draws in visitors.
It is said that Meoto Kusu bestows blessings for marital harmony and good relationships. Therefore, people ranging from young individuals hoping for love and marriage to long-married couples visit this spot. The sight of the two camphor trees growing strongly while supporting each other symbolizes hope and reassurance for many. Praying in front of the Meoto Kusu follows the traditional shrine etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow. Through this ritual, visitors convey their wishes and gratitude to the deities. Praying in front of the Meoto Kusu is a ceremony to be performed with particular sincerity.
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Iris Garden
Within Meiji Shrine, there is a space called the Iris Garden, filled with beautiful flowers that were created for Empress Shoken. This area, once the lower residence of the Kato family from the Kumamoto domain and later the Ii family from the Hikone domain, became imperial property after the Meiji Restoration. Emperor Meiji was captivated by its natural beauty and personally involved in the detailed planning of the garden, including the planting of irises, for Empress Shoken. Concerned for her health, he designed the garden to provide gentle exercise and a refreshing atmosphere for her through detailed and thoughtful landscaping.
The path to the Iris Garden gradually changes as you delve deeper into the forest, offering visitors different views at each turn. Unlike gardens that can be seen in a single glance, this varied scenery provides a unique charm. The Iris Garden at Meiji Shrine holds many renowned varieties of Edo irises that have been passed down from the Edo period. Among them, the "Shoboka" is known as a rare variety that cannot be seen elsewhere, and its historical value is immeasurable. These flowers have been propagated not from seeds but through division over generations. Under the care of individuals like Mr. Koichiro Tamura, who is involved in the garden's management, tens of thousands of pots are replanted annually, preserving these precious flowers. The beautiful scenery of the Iris Garden is a testament to the dedicated efforts to pass down these historic flowers to future generations. The preservation activities are rigorously implemented, with daily tasks such as removing withered flowers, checking for fallen seeds, and ensuring that next year's flower buds are forming.
Turtle Stone
The Turtle Stone at Meiji Shrine is named for its resemblance to a turtle. In Japan, turtles are symbols of longevity and health, as reflected in the saying, "Cranes live for a thousand years, turtles live for ten thousand years." Therefore, the Turtle Stone is regarded as an auspicious power spot and attracts many visitors.
This sacred stone is believed to grant blessings of longevity and health, and it is said that touching the stone can impart these benefits. Additionally, it is believed to have the power to bring financial fortune and good relationships, making it an essential spot for visitors with various wishes.
When visiting Meiji Shrine, it is highly recommended to visit the Turtle Stone, feel its power, and pray for longevity, health, and various forms of good luck.
(Image Citation: 不動産流通システム)
Trivia about Meiji Jingu
Stepping into Meiji Shrine from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, visitors are greeted by a deep forest that transports them to another world. However, it might come as a surprise that this forest, with its rich ecosystem and sacred atmosphere, is not a product of nature, but an artificial forest created by human hands.
A Lush Grove That Is Actually a Man-Made Forest
Stepping into Meiji Shrine, visitors are transported to another world by its deep, lush forest, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. However, it might come as a surprise that this forest, with its rich ecosystem, is not a natural occurrence but an artificial creation, meticulously crafted by human hands.
Once a barren land with hardly any vegetation, this area transformed 100 years ago when around 100,000 trees were donated from all over Japan and planted carefully by 110,000 volunteers. The lush forest we see today owes its existence to the strong will and dedication of the forestry experts who participated in the fundamental planning of Meiji Shrine's establishment after Emperor Meiji's passing. Their goal was to recreate a primeval forest through human effort, relying on nature's course. They selected evergreen broad-leaved trees like chinquapin, oak, and camphor to ensure a sustainable ecosystem. The planting plan was designed with a long-term vision, aiming for a forest that would develop over 50, 100, and 150 years. Initially, evergreen conifers like pine and cedar were planted, interspersed with evergreen broad-leaved trees. The expectation was that in 150 years, the ideal forest would take shape.
This plan faced strong opposition from then-Prime Minister Shigenobu Okuma, who favored a cedar forest similar to those at Ise Shrine and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The forestry experts, relying on their research and deep insight into the future, passionately explained the value of a diverse ecosystem, eventually gaining government approval. The Meiji Shrine forest, now a refuge for various forms of wildlife and an urban oasis, stands as a testament to the grand vision and efforts of these great predecessors.
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Donated Wine Barrels
When visiting Meiji Shrine, there's a special sight to behold as you walk along the South Approach. Amidst the serene atmosphere fitting for a sacred place, you will see rows of sake barrels and wine barrels. Among the traditional sake barrels, the wine barrels donated from the Burgundy region of France particularly stand out.
This unusual scene reflects Emperor Meiji's open attitude towards Western culture and his fondness for wine. The Meiji era was a time of active incorporation of Western culture into Japan, with Emperor Meiji himself leading this movement. As a result, Meiji Shrine features the rare sight of wine barrels being offered to the shrine, something not typically seen in traditional Japanese shrines.
Visitors can appreciate how Japan, during the Meiji period, embraced Western culture and shaped its own unique cultural identity by seeing these wine barrels. Moreover, these barrels are not merely decorative but hold significance as offerings to the shrine, prompting viewers to contemplate the historical and cultural value behind them.
The reason for using the chrysanthemum and paulownia crests
The crests used at Meiji Shrine feature a unique design that includes both the chrysanthemum and the paulownia, reflecting a deep significance beyond mere decoration and symbolizing the shrine's history and respect for Emperor Meiji.
The chrysanthemum crest is one of Japan's most iconic emblems, passed down through the Imperial family since the Kamakura period. The sixteen-petaled chrysanthemum, in particular, is the official crest of the Imperial family and symbolizes the Emperor. Initially, Meiji Shrine used the sixteen-petaled chrysanthemum crest, but it has since switched to a twelve-petaled chrysanthemum to show respect for the Imperial family while maintaining its unique identity.
On the other hand, the paulownia crest, originally known as the family crest of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, was later adopted by the Imperial family. During the Meiji era, it was also adopted by the Japanese government as an official emblem, establishing its status as a public symbol. The paulownia crest is often used in official contexts, representing the state and government.
At Meiji Shrine, these two crests are combined, reflecting the shrine's dedication to Emperor Meiji. Emperor Meiji, a pivotal figure in modern Japan's foundation, embodied both the "private nature" symbolized by the chrysanthemum and the "public nature" symbolized by the paulownia. Therefore, the crests at Meiji Shrine represent the integration of Emperor Meiji's personal qualities and public role, highlighting the shrine's unique position and significance.
The Omikuji without Fortunes
The omikuji at Meiji Shrine stands out from typical fortune slips. Its most distinctive feature is the absence of fortune-telling statements, replaced instead with poems. This unique format was introduced after World War II by Professor Naokazu Miyaji of Kokugakuin University. Named "Oomikokoro" (Great Heart), these omikuji include 30 instructive poems (15 by Emperor Meiji and 15 by Empress Shoken) selected from a vast collection of 93,032 poems by Emperor Meiji and 27,825 by Empress Shoken.
The reason for omitting fortunes in Meiji Shrine's omikuji is to encourage visitors to reflect on their way of life and mindset rather than relying on fortune-telling. The poems drawn offer hints and moral lessons for living a fulfilling life. Additionally, the omikuji includes English translations, making their meaning accessible to international visitors. This consideration is one reason why Meiji Shrine's omikuji is appreciated by visitors from around the world.
Summary
How was it? We've introduced the history, highlights, and fun facts about Meiji Shrine. It's a venerable shrine, but it might be surprising that it was established relatively recently and that the grand forest is actually an artificial creation. Besides the main shrine building and the grand torii gate, there are other notable spots like the Meoto Kusu (Married Couple Trees), Iris Garden, and Turtle Stone, which serve as power spots. Meiji Shrine offers a variety of elements to enjoy from different perspectives.
Our site also introduces interesting Japanese history, culture, and tourist destinations beyond Meiji Shrine. If you're interested, please check out our other articles!
