A Peaceful Morning at Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo
Siva McAteer • July 15, 2025
Shinto Traditions & Surprising Sights
Welcome back, fellow adventurers! I’m Siva McAteer, a travel blogger currently exploring the magic of Tokyo, Japan, before setting sail on a 12-day cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium. π’β¨
Today, I’m taking you along as we visit one of Tokyo’s most peaceful and spiritual destinations—the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Shibuya.
π First Stop: Meiji Jingu Shrine – Tokyo's Tranquil Hidden Gem
We hopped in an Uber in Tokyo, and just like that, we were whisked away to this incredible place. As soon as we arrived, we followed the steady stream of people toward the shrine entrance and were instantly greeted by the towering Torii gates—massive wooden structures that symbolize the boundary between the secular world and the sacred space of the shrine.
Even though you’re in the heart of Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s busiest districts, it all melts away once you step into this Shinto sanctuary. It’s calm, green, and surprisingly quiet—a perfect retreat from the city noise.
β© What is the Meiji Jingu Shrine?
Meiji Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress ShΕken, located right in Shibuya, Tokyo. It’s one of Japan’s most important spiritual sites and offers a unique blend of nature, history, and tradition. The grounds include a peaceful forest, a beautiful garden, and even a small museum.
π A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wedding Moment
While walking through the shrine, we were incredibly lucky to witness a traditional Japanese wedding procession. Talk about timing! The bride looked absolutely stunning in her white kimono, and it was so moving to see a real cultural ceremony unfold right before our eyes.
This is just one of the many rites of life performed at Meiji Jingu Shrine—families gather here to pray for blessings, celebrate milestones, and give thanks. It’s moments like these that make travel so rewarding.
πΆ Colorful Sake Barrels – What Are They?
On our way out, we spotted rows of beautiful colorful barrels—no, they’re not decorations, they’re filled with sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine. These barrels are offerings made to the shrine and are known as kazaridaru. They run along the south side and continue on the opposite path, making for a vibrant photo op and a meaningful cultural display.
πΊ Next Stop: Shibuya!
Although we could’ve easily spent hours here, we’re now off to explore Shibuya, just a 20-minute walk from Meiji Jingu. I’m so excited to dive back into the city vibe and see what Tokyo has in store for us next!
Thanks for joining me on today’s adventure! I’m Siva McAteer, and I’ll be sharing all my stops, surprises, and must-see moments across Japan and on our upcoming cruise. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow along, and tag me if you end up visiting this sacred gem yourself! π«
𧳠Key Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine:
π Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
β© Entry: Free
π Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
π Look out for: Torii gates, traditional weddings, sake barrels, and forest trails
πΆβοΈ Best paired with: A walk to Shibuya Crossing or Harajuku
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