Meiji Jingu Shrine was built in 1920 in the memory of Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo is located near Harajuku railway station which is served by the Yamanote Line of Japan Railways. This Tokyo shrine is approachable by Chiyoda Line subway through Meiji-jingu-mei station.
According to Shinto traditions it is a common practice to worship the spirits of deceased eminent personalities. After the death of Emperor Meiji in 1912 and Empress Shoken in 1914, their departed souls were worshipped at this particular site in 1920 on November 1st. The shrine principally built of Kiso cypress wood is decorated in Nagarezukhuri style.
Tokyo Meiji Jingu Shrine has two portions:
- The Naien - This is the inner premises surrounding the main shrine. The Naien houses the Treasure Museum built in
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Azekurazukuri architectural style. Articles used by the Emperor and the Empress are displayed in this museum.
- The Gaien - The Gaien constitutes the outer garden. The Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and murals occupy a major area of the Gaien. There is a collection of eighty murals depicting various events in the lives of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The National Stadium, treated as the center for sports in Japan, is located in the shrine premises. Meiji Memorial Hall, another important building is used for wedding purposes. Previously it was used for government meetings.
The Japanese Meiji Jingu Shrine is surrounded by a forest of 175 acres consisting of more than 120,000 evergreen trees of 365 species.
Meiji Jingu Shrine dedicated to the first Emperor of modern Japan offers a quiet and calm ambiance to visitors to this holy place.
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