44 Facts About Meiji Shrine - A Window into Japan's Rich Culture and History

Facts About Meiji Shrine: Meiji Shrine, located in the bustling city of Tokyo, is one of Japan's most famous and beloved shrines. It was built to honor the memory of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who reigned over Japan during a time of great change and modernization. The shrine is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural significance. In this article, we'll explore 44 fascinating facts about Meiji Shrine that will give you a deeper appreciation for this important cultural landmark.

Discover the Wonders of One of Japan's Most Beloved and Sacred Shrines

• Meiji Shrine is located in Shibuya, Tokyo, and covers an area of 175 acres.
• It was built in 1920, eight years after the death of Emperor Meiji.
• The shrine was built using traditional Japanese architecture, with no nails or metal fixtures.
• The main hall of the shrine is made from 17 types of Japanese cypress trees.
• The shrine was destroyed during World War II, but was later rebuilt using the same traditional methods.
• Meiji Shrine is surrounded by a forest that was planted by volunteers over a period of 35 years.
• The forest includes over 100,000 trees, many of which were donated by people from all over Japan.
• The shrine is home to over 200 different species of birds.
• Visitors to the shrine can write their wishes on small wooden plaques called ema, which are then hung on a special wall.
• The shrine is also home to a large pond filled with koi fish.
• Meiji Shrine is a popular destination for traditional Shinto weddings.
• The shrine is open every day of the year, and admission is free.
• Over 3 million people visit the shrine each year.
• Meiji Shrine is known for its beautiful azalea gardens, which are in full bloom in the spring.
• The shrine is also home to a variety of other flowers, including peonies, irises, and camellias.
• Visitors to the shrine can participate in traditional Japanese cultural activities, such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy lessons.
• The shrine is surrounded by a large wall made from 1,500-year-old Japanese cedar trees.
• The main gate of the shrine, called the torii gate, is made from 1,500-year-old Japanese cypress trees.
• The torii gate is the largest of its kind in Japan, and stands 12 meters tall.
• Meiji Shrine was built using donations from the Japanese people.
• The shrine was built as a way to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who were instrumental in modernizing Japan.
• Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken were known for their love of Western culture, and worked to modernize Japan's government, economy, and military.
• Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken were also known for their support of education, and founded a number of schools and universities throughout Japan.
• The shrine is home to a number of artifacts that belonged to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, including their carriages and clothes.
• The shrine also houses a museum that showcases the life and accomplishments of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
• The museum includes over 80,000 artifacts, including letters written by Emperor Meiji, paintings, and traditional Japanese crafts.
• Meiji Shrine is a popular destination for New Year's celebrations in Japan.
• On New Year's Day, over 3 million people visit the shrine to offer their first prayers of the year.
• The shrine also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the annual Shinto festival, which takes place in November.
• The shrine is also home to a number of traditional Japanese gardens, including a garden that features a traditional Japanese tea house.
• The shrine's tea house is known for its traditional Japanese tea ceremony, which is a highly ritualized and symbolic art form.
• Visitors to the shrine can also participate in traditional Japanese archery lessons.
• Meiji Shrine is a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.
• The shrine is home to over 100 cherry trees, which bloom in late March and early April.
• The shrine is also home to a number of sacred camphor trees, which are said to be over 1,000 years old.
• The camphor trees are considered to be sacred, and are believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits.
• The shrine's camphor trees are also used to make traditional Japanese incense.
• Meiji Shrine is a popular destination for photographers, and is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
• The shrine is also a popular destination for picnics and walks in the park.
• The shrine's forest is home to a number of hiking trails, which offer beautiful views of Tokyo and the surrounding area.
• The shrine's forest is also home to a number of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and raccoons.
• Meiji Shrine is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan.
• The shrine has been visited by a number of famous people, including Queen Elizabeth II and former US President Barack Obama.
• Meiji Shrine is a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Japan, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history.

Conclusion:

Meiji Shrine is a beloved and sacred shrine located in the heart of Tokyo, and is one of Japan's most important cultural landmarks. With its beautiful architecture, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural significance, the shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. Whether you're interested in traditional Japanese art forms, hiking and nature, or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine, Meiji Shrine is a place that will captivate and inspire you.