Meiji Gates

Large wooden gates (torii) at the Meiji Jingu shrine in Tokyo.

The Meiji Gate (明治神宮の大鳥居, Meiji Jingū no Ōtorii) is a stunning and iconic entrance to the Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) in Tokyo, Japan. Situated in a tranquil, forested area of the bustling city, this grand torii gate serves as a symbolic gateway into the sacred grounds of one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.

Design and Features

The Meiji Gate is a traditional Shinto torii, constructed from Japanese cypress (hinoki), reflecting timeless Japanese architectural elegance. It is one of the largest wooden torii gates in Japan, standing approximately 12 meters (39 feet) high and 17 meters (56 feet) wide, with massive pillars that measure about 1.2 meters (4 feet) in diameter. The gate’s scale and simplicity exude a sense of reverence and grandeur, befitting the serene environment it marks.

The wood used for the gate comes from 1,500-year-old trees, emphasizing its deep connection to nature and tradition. Despite being located in the heart of Tokyo, surrounded by modern urban life, the Meiji Gate and the sprawling forest around it provide a profound sense of calm and detachment from the city’s fast-paced energy.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

As the entrance to Meiji Shrine, the gate serves both as a physical and symbolic threshold between the secular world and the sacred space beyond. Visitors traditionally bow before passing through the gate as a gesture of respect. It is not merely a decorative feature but a deeply spiritual marker that underscores the transition to a place of worship and reflection.

The Meiji Gate also plays an important role during annual rituals and festivals held at the shrine, such as hatsumōde (the first shrine visit of the New Year), attracting millions of visitors who walk through the gate as part of their pilgrimage.

Surrounding Atmosphere

Flanked by dense forest paths, the Meiji Gate is surrounded by over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, creating a lush, serene setting. The approach to the gate is part of the experience, with a gravel pathway leading visitors deeper into the natural beauty of the shrine grounds. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a popular spot not just for spiritual seekers but also for tourists looking to escape Tokyo’s urban intensity.

The Meiji Gate is more than just an entrance; it is a powerful representation of Japanese tradition, spirituality, and harmony with nature, making it an unforgettable part of any visit to Meiji Shrine.