Meiji Jingu: Escaping The Hustle And Bustle

Meiji Jingu is a shrine dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine was completed in 1920, but only to be destroyed during the Second World War. However, it was rebuilt shortly after. There are two things in particular which amaze me about this place:

1) Approximately 10,000 trees make up Meiji Jingu’s forest, which is located inside the busiest city in the world! It’s like stepping into another realm.

A sea of concrete and wood

2) Meiji Jingu is located right next to Harajuku, which is quite possibly the most contrasting area in Tokyo you could ask for. You could leave the peaceful, traditional holy grounds and soon find yourself in the world’s busiest street within a four minute walk.

A perfect example of how diverse Tokyo is

Along with being one of the most popular tourist traps in Tokyo, it is also a popular place for Shinto weddings. Believe it or not, there is one point in the year where Meiji Jingu gets as busy as the street pictured above. New Year’s Eve/Day. I’ve never experienced it myself (and don’t intend to) but waiting for hours in the freezing cold to pray for a happy year isn’t the way I want to spend my New Year’s Eve.

So once again I went out and got my hands dirty to bring you this video of the divine Meiji Jingu. Enjoy!

What are your thoughts on the huge contrasts between old and neo Tokyo? What impressed you in the video?