Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo (must see)

Tucked away in a lush forest of towering evergreens, Meiji Shrine is a full-blown sanctuary in the heart of Tokyo. Built to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this shrine celebrates their legacy in modernizing Japan, proving that emperors can leave behind more than just portraits and history books.

It all began with an iris garden—a favorite retreat of the royal couple—until the government decided it was prime real estate for something grander. The construction kicked off in 1915, showcasing Nagare-zukuri architecture with Japanese cypress and copper accents. By 1926, the shrine was fully complete.

Then came World War II, and the original structure was reduced to rubble. But thanks to public fundraising, Meiji Shrine made a comeback in 1958, proving that Tokyo never lets a good thing stay down for long.

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting—the surrounding forest is a 700,000-square-meter wonderland with 120,000 trees from 365 species, all donated from across Japan. And this woodland escape in the heart of the city isn't just for meditation and tree-hugging. New Year's first prayers? Absolutely. Shinto rituals? Plenty of those. Making wishes on wooden plaques? Of course.

The shrine's inner precinct (Naien) houses the buildings and a museum filled with royal memorabilia—because what’s a shrine without a little royal nostalgia? The outer precinct (Gaien) is where things get even more dynamic, featuring an art gallery of imperial life murals, sports venues (including the National Stadium), and the Meiji Memorial Hall, which once saw political action but now hosts the most elegant Shinto weddings you’ll ever see.

And if all that fresh air makes you peckish, no worries! There’s a charming café, a souvenir shop (with surprisingly reasonable prices!), and, for sake enthusiasts, a glorious display of stacked sake barrels—because nothing complements Japan’s sacred site quite as tastefully as a towering tribute to the country's favorite rice-based beverage.

Just don’t be surprised if you end up staying longer than planned—it’s that kind of place. And hey, if you do end up making a wish here, aim high—after all, Emperor Meiji helped modernize a whole nation. So, dream big.

Tip:
If you can, drop by on a Sunday—that’s when the Shinto weddings happen—traditional, colorful, and utterly mesmerizing. Plus, the entrance is free from sunrise to sunset.