About This Tour
Meiji Jingu shrine, despite being an iconic tourist attraction featuring authentic Japanese culture, can be a bit inaccessible to foreigners unfamiliar with Shinto. We are thus arranging this tour to help you make the most of Meiji Jingu and leave you with a peace of mind by guiding you through the philosophy and practices of Shinto and enjoying a personal prayer session during with you can experience the essence of Shinto. In the personal prayer, you first write down your wishes to God for family safety, marriage, health, academic success, etc. Then you are taken to a tatami room where you can watch priests in ancient costumes purify the place with the sound of bells, a performance of Gagaku (ancient court music) on ancient instruments and flutes (a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage), and a Miko (shrine maiden) dance performance. Finally, with your heart cleansed and refreshed, you receive an Ofuda, which is an amulet filled with your wishes along with the power of today's prayer.
Photo Gallery
You can witness priestesses serving the gods, dressed in traditional attire and holding sacred ritual implements passed down through generations, praying for peace and offering thanks.
Shide: Paper streamers that mark a sacred boundary. They are displayed to keep away negative or impure influences.
The robes worn by Shinto priests originate from the court attire of Heian-period nobility and have been passed down through the centuries to the present day.
A Shinto priest purifies the worshipper’s body and mind by reciting a prayer and waving a purification wand. Please bow your head and receive it respectfully.
Shinto priests engage in daily training to refine their spirit, knowledge, and physical health, nurturing a devoted attitude of service to the gods.
The drum is played, and a perification rite is performed. A senior priest then recites a norito (Shinto liturgy)
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Special Access: Join a Traditional Shinto Ritual at Meiji Shrine
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What's Included
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Additional Information
Meeting Point
Meet under the Second Torii Gate at Meiji Jingu Shrine. The guide will be waiting for you with a board displaying your name.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
明治神宮 古代祈祷ツアー Meiji shrine ancient prayers tour
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Special Access: Join a Traditional Shinto Ritual at Meiji Shrine
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by 明治神宮 古代祈祷ツアー Meiji shrine ancient prayers tour, a local sightseeing provider in Tokyo.
What's included?
This tour includes Information and application form translation fees. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
What to expect on this tour?
This sightseeing experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Information and application form translation fees.
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