Tokyo: Meiji Shrine Walking Tour — Shinto & Imperial System

¥3,200 JPY

Meiji Shrine, located in a lush forest, is the most visited shrine in Japan. On this small-group tour, a local guide explains Shinto and the Japanese Imperial system.

Highlights

Small group tour for more personal experience
The mysterious forest where noise disappears
Japan's 2,600-year-old imperial system
Visiting the most popular shinto shrine in Japan
Learn how Japan went from samurai to modern

Full Description

Meiji Shrine offers a stunning natural escape in the heart of the city, surrounded by approximately 100,000 trees. As you walk along the shaded path, listening to birdsong, you’ll encounter Japan’s largest wooden torii gate. Crafted from a 1,500-year-old Taiwanese cypress, this towering 12-meter structure leaves visitors awestruck with its powerful presence. When passing through the torii, it’s customary to walk along the edges of the path to avoid the sacred central route, known as seichu, reserved for deities. On this small-group tour of up to 10 people.

At the main shrine, you can experience Shinto, Japan’s ancient religion. Rooted in respect for nature and harmony with the divine, Shinto has provided spiritual support to people in Japan for centuries. After paying your respects, you can purchase omamori (protective charms) or a unique omikuji called Omigokoro, which features poems written by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. These poems come with English translations, making them accessible and meaningful for international visitors.

After visiting the shrine, unwind at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. At Café ‘Mori no Terrace,’ enjoy Japanese tea and light snacks while taking in the beautiful scenery. The gift shop offers unique mementos, such as eco-blocks made from fragrant Japanese camphor and miniature barrels of sacred sake, perfect for capturing memories of your visit.

Please note: This tour is conducted in English only, Japanese language support is not available.

Inclusions

English Guide
Sightseeing Tour

1. Meeting Point – Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station, East Exit
Meet under the stairs at the East Exit of Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station and begin your journey into one of Tokyo’s most sacred spaces.

2. First Torii Gate & Forest Walk
Walk to the first massive torii gate and take photos while admiring its impressive size.

Then enter the long, peaceful forest path — it’s hard to believe you’re still in the heart of Tokyo.

3. Sake Barrels & Wine Barrels
Arrive at the famous display of sake barrels. Learn about Japanese sake culture, why these barrels are offered to the shrine, and the surprising connection to the nearby wine barrels.

4. Second Grand Torii Gate
Pass through another impressive torii gate as we move deeper into the shrine grounds.

5. Imperial Waka & Shinto Purification Ritual
Read poetry (waka) written by Emperor Meiji and learn about his philosophy.

At the purification fountain (temizuya), discover the meaning behind Shinto cleansing rituals.

6. Main Shrine (Honden)
Arrive at the main shrine — one of the most visited sacred sites in Tokyo.

Learn how to pray properly and understand the significance of Meiji Shrine in modern Japan.

7. Amulets, Goshuin & Souvenir Area
Explore traditional amulets (omamori), optional goshuin stamps, and visit the souvenir shops and restaurants at the end of the tour.

Location

Harajuku Station, meijijinguu-mae Gate (East Exit2)