Meiji Shrine
Kanto Region
Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. Established as a national project following Emperor Meiji's death in 1912, the shrine was constructed using traditional Japanese architectural styles and materials sourced from across Japan and its territories. The shrine complex is set within a 70-hectare evergreen forest comprising 120,000 trees donated by people nationwide, offering a peaceful natural retreat amidst Tokyo's urban environment. The main shrine buildings were completed in 1921 but were destroyed during World War II air raids and subsequently rebuilt in 1958 through public fundraising. The complex includes the Naien, the inner precinct with the shrine buildings and a treasure museum housing artifacts related to the Emperor and Empress, and the Gaien, the outer precinct featuring the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and various sports facilities. The shrine hosts several annual festivals and remains a significant cultural and spiritual site, attracting visitors for both worship and recreation.
ヒント: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and avoid crowds. Entry is free, but consider purchasing tickets in advance for special exhibitions or events. The shrine grounds are open from sunrise to sunset and are adjacent to Yoyogi Park, ideal for a combined visit. Seasonal festivals and exhibitions provide unique cultural experiences, so check the official website for event schedules. Discounts may be available for groups or during certain festivals.
興味深い事実
- •The shrine forest comprises 120,000 trees of 365 species donated from all over Japan.
- •The original shrine was destroyed during World War II air raids and rebuilt in 1958 through public fundraising.
- •The shrine's construction mobilized youth groups and civic associations nationwide, contributing labor and materials.
- •Meiji Shrine has been visited by notable foreign politicians including US President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
- •The shrine complex includes the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery with 80 large murals depicting the lives of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
歴史
Following Emperor Meiji's death in 1912, the Japanese Diet resolved to commemorate his role in the Meiji Restoration by building a shrine.
Construction began in 1915 under architect Itō Chūta, using materials from all Japanese prefectures and territories.
The shrine was completed and dedicated in 1920-1921.
It was destroyed during World War II air raids and rebuilt in 1958 funded by public donations.
Historically, it was ranked as a Kanpei-taisha, a top government-supported shrine until 1946.
The surrounding forest was planted with trees donated from across Japan, creating a unique urban sanctuary.
場所ガイド
Naien (Inner Precinct)1920s
The inner precinct centered on the main shrine buildings, featuring traditional Shinto architecture and a treasure museum that houses artifacts related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. The museum is built in the Azekurazukuri style, showcasing cultural heritage.
Gaien (Outer Precinct)1920s
The outer precinct includes the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, home to 80 murals illustrating the lives of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, as well as various sports facilities including national stadiums and the Meiji Memorial Hall, used historically for government meetings and today for weddings and events.
Jingu Bashi Bridge
The entrance to the shrine complex passes over this iconic wooden bridge, offering a symbolic transition from the urban environment into the tranquil forested sanctuary of Meiji Shrine.
連絡先
電話: 03-3379-5511