Tokyo: Meiji Shrine Historical Tour by Japanese Guide

Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine Historical Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Guided by a knowledgeable Japanese expert, visitors can explore the magnificent 12-meter-tall torii gate and learn about Shinto traditions and the Japanese Imperial system. With a tranquil Japanese garden and a reasonable price tag, this small group tour provides an ideal escape from the city’s hustle, leaving one curious to uncover more about the fascinating history and customs that define the Meiji Shrine.

Key Points

• The Meiji Shrine Historical Tour provides a 2-hour guided experience in English and Japanese, focusing on Shinto religion and Japanese imperial history.
• The tour includes a visit to the 12-meter-tall wooden torii gate and a free admission ticket to a tranquil Japanese garden.
• Participants can purchase unique Japanese souvenirs, such as omamori (protective charms) and Omigokoro poems, during the tour.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 16 customer reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides.
• The tour offers a peaceful respite from the nearby bustling Harajuku district, allowing visitors to immerse in Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Meiji Shrine Historical Tour offers visitors a chance to explore Japan’s most popular shrine, located in a lush forest setting.

Priced at $24.60 per person, the 2-hour small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) is led by a live Japanese guide available in English and Japanese.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Highlights include the impressive 12-meter-tall torii gate, learning about Shinto and the Japanese Imperial system, and receiving a free admission ticket to a beautiful Japanese garden.

Unique souvenirs like protective charms and poetry are also available.

Experience and Highlights

As visitors step into the lush, serene forest of the Meiji Shrine, they encounter Japan’s largest wooden torii gate, an imposing structure crafted from a 1,500-year-old Taiwanese cypress that stands tall at 12 meters.

The tour explores the rich history and significance of Shinto, Japan’s ancient religion, as well as the influential Japanese Imperial system spanning over 2,600 years.

Guests receive a free admission ticket to a beautiful Japanese garden and can purchase unique souvenirs like omamori (protective charms) and Omigokoro poems written by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, with English translations.

Itinerary

Starting from JR Harajuku Station’s East Exit, a 5-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station, the tour takes guests on a journey through the Meiji Shrine and a beautiful Japanese garden.

The main stops include the Meiji Shrine, a sacred site dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Visitors will encounter Japan’s largest wooden torii gate, standing at an impressive 12 meters tall.

The tour also includes a visit to a nearby Japanese garden, providing a tranquil respite. Itineraries are subject to change, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable experience for all participants.

Customer Reviews

Meiji Shrine Historical Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants. Based on 16 reviews, the tour boasts an impressive 4.6/5 overall rating.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, who provide fascinating insights into Shinto religion and Japan’s imperial history. The peaceful, serene atmosphere of the shrine and garden also resonates with visitors.

Mia Marie Degn from Denmark and David from Australia are among the notable reviewers who highlighted the tour’s accessibility for first-time visitors and the overall quality of the experience.

This wealth of positive feedback underscores the tour’s popularity and appeal.

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Additional Amenities

After the tour, visitors can unwind at the Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu’s Café ‘Mori no Terrace’ for Japanese tea and light snacks.

The on-site gift shop offers eco-friendly souvenirs such as camphor blocks and miniature sacred sake barrels.

Guests can experience the serene environment of the shrine, which contrasts with the nearby hustle and bustle of Harajuku.

The tour provides a peaceful respite from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Meiji Shrine: Japan’s Most Popular Shrine

The Meiji Shrine is Japan’s most popular shrine, attracting over 30 million visitors each year.

Nestled in a lush forest, the shrine honors the late Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Its towering torii gate, crafted from a 1,500-year-old Taiwanese cypress, stands as a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can learn about Shinto, the ancient Japanese religion, and the country’s imperial system.

After exploring the shrine, guests can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the adjacent Japanese garden, included in the tour.

The serene atmosphere offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, making the Meiji Shrine a must-visit destination in Tokyo.

Shinto: Japan’s Ancient Religion

Although Shinto is Japan’s ancient and indigenous religion, it has played a significant role in the country’s cultural and social fabric for over 2,600 years.

Shinto is a polytheistic belief system that revolves around the worship of deities called "kami." These kami can be found in nature, such as mountains, rivers, and forests, as well as in objects, concepts, and even deceased people.

Practitioners of Shinto believe in maintaining harmony with the kami through rituals, shrine visits, and other practices.

Today, Shinto remains an integral part of Japanese identity and continues to influence various aspects of the nation’s culture and traditions.

The Japanese Imperial System

As a central pillar of Japanese society, the Japanese Imperial System has endured for over 2,600 years, shaping the nation’s cultural and political identity.

Tracing its origins to the 7th century, the Imperial System has maintained an unbroken line of emperors, considered descendants of the sun goddess Amaterasu.

While the role of the Emperor has evolved, the monarchy remains a crucial symbol of Japan’s traditions and unity.

Today, the current Emperor, Naruhito, ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019, continuing the Imperial legacy and serving as a revered figurehead in Japan’s modern democratic framework.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Shrine?

Visitors are generally permitted to take photos within the Meiji Shrine grounds, though they should avoid disrupting the shrine’s serene atmosphere and respect any restrictions communicated by the tour guide or shrine staff.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

You can wear casual, comfortable clothing on the tour. There’s no strict dress code, but it’s respectful to avoid overly revealing or athletic wear. The shrine has a serene atmosphere, so dressing modestly is recommended.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There is no mention of a private tour option in the provided information. The tour is described as a small group experience, limited to 10 participants. The overview focuses on the standard group tour format and pricing.

Can I Purchase Tickets On-Site Instead of Online?

Guests can purchase Meiji Shrine tour tickets on-site, but booking online provides the option to reserve a spot and pay later. On-site sales are subject to availability and may result in longer wait times.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. The experience is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal activity for families and individuals of all backgrounds to learn about Japanese culture and history.

The Sum Up

The Meiji Shrine Historical Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, visitors can explore the magnificent Shinto shrine, learn about Shinto traditions and the Japanese Imperial system, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surrounding Japanese garden. This tour provides a perfect escape from the bustling city of Tokyo, allowing guests to experience the serene and spiritual essence of Japan.

You can check if your dates are available here: