Meiji Jingu Main Sanctuary: The Soul of Modern Japan

Why is it significant?

Step through the heavy copper-studded timber gates into the vast white gravel courtyard of the Meiji Jingu Main Sanctuary.

Key Facts

Open the walk

Step through the heavy copper-studded timber gates into the vast white gravel courtyard of the Meiji Jingu Main Sanctuary. Before you rises the majestic Honden, constructed from unlacquered Japanese cypress in the austere Nagare-zukuri architectural style, with sweeping roofs made of layered copper plates and golden imperial chrysanthemum seals gleaming on the gables. This sanctuary enshrines the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken, who guided Japan from feudal samurai isolation into a modern world power during the late nineteenth century. The dignity and simplicity of the raw wood design radiates timeless grace.

Notice the two colossal camphor trees joined by a heavy braided straw rope, or shimenawa, on the left side of the courtyard. Known as the Husband and Wife Trees, or Meoto Kusu, they were planted together in nineteen twenty and are worshipped as living symbols of marital harmony, happy relationships, and domestic peace, drawing countless couples for traditional Shinto weddings. Brides in white silk shiromuku kimonos frequently glide across the courtyard beneath crimson parasols.

During the Hatsumode New Year celebrations across the first three days of January, more than three million worshippers pass through this courtyard to cast coins into the offering box, clap twice to summon the kami, and bow in silent reflection, making this the most heavily visited spiritual site in all of Japan. Despite the immense crowds, the atmosphere remains orderly and profoundly serene.

As you approach the offering hall, perform the traditional Shinto greeting: cast a five-yen coin into the wooden grille, bow deeply twice at a ninety-degree angle, clap your hands sharply twice to awaken the deities, offer your silent prayer, and finish with one final deep bow to show reverence. The five-yen coin is favored because its Japanese name, go-en, is a homophone for good fortune and meaningful connections.

Exit the courtyard toward the south and follow the woodland trail leading into the secluded Inner Garden.