Serenity in the Heart of Tokyo: A Walk through Meiji Jingu

#japantrip #harajuku #awesomepic Starting my journey from Harajuku Station, I quickly left the hustle and bustle behind as I stepped into the peaceful, green surroundings of Meiji Jingu. The dense canopy of trees created a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the trendy streets just moments away. As I approached the torii gate, I was struck by its towering presence, marking the entrance to one of Tokyo’s most sacred shrines. Meiji Jingu, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, has a deep-rooted history tied to the modernization of Japan. Emperor Meiji was pivotal in transitioning Japan from an isolated feudal society into a modern world power during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. The shrine, built in 1920, serves as a spiritual center to honor their contributions, but it was completely rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II. Walking through the sprawling grounds, I came across sake barrels and wine barrels, gifts from different parts of Japan and even from Western countries, symbolizing the bridging of cultures. It was fascinating to see how Emperor Meiji, known for embracing Western ideas while maintaining Japan’s traditional values, was remembered in such a way. The path eventually led me to the shrine itself, a beautiful and tranquil space. Visitors quietly offered prayers, while others hung wishes on wooden plaques, a tradition known as ema. There was something timeless about this place, where nature and history intertwined seamlessly. On my way out, I couldn’t help but admire the rows of lanterns strung together, adding a magical touch to the sacred surroundings.