My Love for Meiji Shrine

one of the tori gates at meiji shrine

I know Meiji Shrine is one of the most listed tourist spots in Tokyo but I wanted to dedicate a blog post to it because of how much I adore it. I adore it the same way I love central park in New York City. I love when cities have these little hidden oasis' of green to make you feel calm. 

sake barrels at Meiji Shrine

These are Sake barrels that you see as you first enter the shrine area. They are donated by sake brewers from around Japan for ceremonies and festivals at the shrine. At least that is what I've learned from my research. 

What is so incredible to me about Meiji shrine is how quiet it is when you are walking around under the covered trees. Whenever I'm having a bad day or a stressful one I like to come and walk around under the trees and just listen to the silence and breathe.

I recommend to come here at sunset even though it is when they are closing asking around at sunset is so nice so if you get there a little before and see the shrine and then you go to the Tori gates its a great view. 

Sometimes during the day in this big area you'll see weddings happening which is always incredible and beautiful to see! The long parade of family behind the bride in this elaborate hat and kimono, its gorgeous.

When I went to the Shrine they were doing construction so I don't have a lot of good pictures of the main area but I love this area where you write your wish on these little wooden cards. They usually have a painting on the other side so I like to get them as souvenirs too and write a note on them for family and friends. 

It's also a great place to take pictures, my boyfriend and I like to go walk around and take pictures there.