Tokyo

Map of Meiji Jingu Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine

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Catch a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony... if you're lucky

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Ever heard of the Meiji Restoration? Tokyo's most important shrine (Meiji-jingu; Meiji Shrine) honors the man who opened Tokyo and Japan to western culture. The immaculate shrine provides some "real Japan" flavor, smack dab in the middle of Tokyo, near Shibuya, Omotesando, and Harajuku. It's an extremely popular spot for traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies, so you don't even have to be that lucky to catch a gorgeously decked-out procession making its slow way across the plaza. The spacious shrine grounds are situated right next to Yoyogi Park, Tokyo's largest, which is also a must-visit destination for taking in some much-needed greenery. Rent a bike to catch all the park's beauty and oddball characters in one easy ride.

Frommer's
...Tokyo's most venerable Shinto shrine, opened in 1920 in honor of Emperor and Empress Meiji, who were instrumental in opening Japan to the outside world more than 120 years ago. Japan's two largest torii (the traditional entry gate of a shrine), built of cypress more than 1,700 years old, give dramatic entrance to the grounds, once the estate of a daimyo. The shaded pathway is lined with trees, shrubs, and dense woods. In late May/June, the Iris Garden is in spectacular bloom (admission fee charged). About a 10-minute walk from the first torii, the shrine... show full description

wcities.com
This perfect example of Shinto architecture - muted colors and spare lines -was opened in 1920 to commemorate the death of Emperor Meiji in 1912. Surrounded by 72 hectares (178 acres) of shady trees and the various Japanese flora of Meiji Jingu Park, it is one of Japan's most sacred and picturesque shrines. The Imperial Treasury House annex exhibits the coronation carriage and mementos of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
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