⛩️ Meiji Jingu Shrine (明治神宮)

Meiji Jingu was established in the 9th year of Taisho (1920) and is a shrine dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine consists of the main shrine (Shengdong), the inner garden (Naiin), the outer garden (Gaiin), and the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery (a wedding venue). The inner garden, which serves as the center of the shrine, is quiet and serene, while the outer garden features the Seiryu Memorial Picture Gallery as its focal point, along with various sports facilities. The Jingu Forest is an artificial woodland made up of over 100,000 trees. It feels mysterious and incredible to be enveloped by such a vast forest even though it is located in the heart of Tokyo. Meiji Jingu also boasts numerous spots believed to be sources of energy. The two giant trees known as "M夫妻楠" (Fufu Kusu) stand closely together in front of the main shrine, and it is said they bless love and marital happiness. The "Kiyomasa Well" (清正井), dug by the Warring States period commander Kato Kiyomasa, flows at a rate of 60 liters per minute and is believed to bring good fortune to worshipers. The imposing “Otorii” (大鳥居), constructed from cypress wood sourced from Taiwan, is the largest wooden torii gate in Japan. As part of the centennial celebration, the "Meiji Jingu Museum" (明治神宮博物館) opened in the first year of Reiwa (2019). Within the museum, visitors can view precious artifacts related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, as well as various special exhibitions.

Every year, the number of worshippers at the New Year's shrine visits ranks first in Japan. It is said that the "Kiyomasa Pond" (清正井), excavated by the Sengoku period warlord Kato Kiyomasa, is the most famous energy spot in Tokyo. The garden is home to 150 species and 1,500 irises, with the blooming season occurring in mid-June each year.