Meiji Jingu Shrine

Tokyo’s largest shrine, Meiji-jingū, covers 175 acres and houses over 100,000 trees, making it a lush escape from the hard angles of the city. The shrine itself is austere and built using cypress and copper in the nagare-zukuri style. Though often busy with tourists and pilgrims, it is still extremely popular for weddings, which are a treat to see.

We particularly recommend the inner garden, which pre-dates the shrine itself and is said to have been designed by the Meiji Emperor for his wife. Particularly beautiful when the masses of irises – much loved by the Meiji Empress – are in bloom, it is a tranquil spot during the remainder of the year and boasts a pond with large colourful koi and an interesting well.