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Explore Tokyo's Meiji Jingu and Kanda Myōjin Shrines on a guided tour. Discover the serene beauty of Meiji Jingu and the vibrant energy of Kanda Myōjin.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Discover the vibrant energy of Kanda Myōjin Shrine near Akihabara
• Experience the contrast between Tokyo's bustling cityscape and sacred spaces
• Learn about the history and significance of these two iconic shrines
• Enjoy a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle

Description

A Journey Through Tokyo’s Shrines: Meiji Jingu and Kanda Myōjin Begin your journey at **Meiji Jingu Shrine**, stepping out of Harajuku Station into a world of trendy boutiques and flashing billboards. Walking along the wide pathway, you are surrounded by dense greenery. This forest is not entirely natural—it was carefully cultivated. More than **100,000 trees**, donated from all over Japan, were planted here to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Over time, they have grown into a forest so lush and serene that it feels ancient, though it is barely a century old. As you approach the shrine’s main complex, another towering **torii** greets you. Beyond it lies the **honden**, the main sanctuary, a beautiful example of traditional *nagare-zukuri* architecture. Built with hinoki cypress and copper roofs, the structure radiates solemnity. Many visitors pause at the **temizuya**, the water pavilion, to wash their hands and mouth in a ritual act of purification before offering prayers. At the main offering hall, the rhythm of Shinto prayer unfolds. Visitors bow twice, clap their hands twice to call the kami, and bow once again. The air feels charged with centuries of devotion. Even for those who are not followers of Shinto, the experience resonates. It is less about religion in a narrow sense than about respect, presence, and gratitude. On either side of the main courtyard, decorated barrels draw the eye. One side features **sake barrels**, donated by brewers across Japan, symbolizing prosperity, celebration, and the connection between people and deities. Opposite them stands a row of **wine barrels**, donated by French wineries in honor of Emperor Meiji, who embraced Western culture and modernization. Together, they symbolize the unique blend of Japanese tradition and international openness that defines modern Japan. Next, make your way to **Kanda Myōjin Shrine**, located near Akihabara, Tokyo’s bustling technology and gaming district. Where Meiji Jingu offers calm and solemnity, Kanda Myōjin is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. The shrine’s traditional architecture and the surrounding skyscrapers. The brilliant red **Zuishinmon gate**, adorned with intricate carvings and statues, welcomes you into the sacred grounds. Inside, the main hall stands as a masterpiece of Edo-period design, with its ornate roof and vivid colors.Kanda Myōjin has also adapted to the modern age. Many visitors come to pray for success in business and technology, and the shrine even offers **special amulets for electronic devices**, believed to protect against data loss and malfunctions. The ema, or wooden prayer plaques, often feature anime-style artwork alongside personal wishes, reflecting its close connection to nearby Akihabara and its contemporary culture.

Includes

Visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine Visit to Kanda Myōjin Shrine Experience Shinto spirituality Explore Tokyo's cityscape

Important Information

• The shrines are sacred spaces, so respectful behavior is expected. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. The shrines are popular, so visiting early in the day may provide a more peaceful experience. Both shrines are accessible by public transport from central Tokyo.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund