Exploring Tokyo’s Central Railway Station
With its grand opening set back in June 1914, Tokyo Station was considered something of a marvel. The reigning Emperor at the time, Emperor Meiji, ambitiously led Japan into the ...
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With its grand opening set back in June 1914, Tokyo Station was considered something of a marvel. The reigning Emperor at the time, Emperor Meiji, ambitiously led Japan into the ...
With its grand opening set back in June 1914, Tokyo Station was considered something of a marvel. The reigning Emperor at the time, Emperor Meiji, ambitiously led Japan into the modern world, and made a point of moving away from traditional Japanese design. Tokyo’s Central Railway Station is a prime example of this.
Leading up to its build, the Emperor wanted to place strong emphasis on Japan’s competence in transportation technologies along with the international context of capital city railway stations to express confidence and a strong sense of authority. The location was deliberately chosen to be centred within the city, as though to play the role of the Emperor’s personal station, which he had used often for state visits. With the main entrance facing the Imperial Palace, the evidence speaks for itself.
What’s really interesting about this beautiful architecture, is just how western it is visually. Word has it that when the commissioned Japanese architect, Kingo Tatsuno had initially designed the station in 1903, it has been in the style of a Momoyama Palace, much to the Emperor’s disapproval. Though the artist was considered a ‘pioneer of Japanese modern architecture’, the original design was just not modern enough. The Emperor was quoted saying, “Stations and like things are best rendered in a foreign style.”, much to the amusement of many. Kingo later returned with design reminiscent of Amsterdam’s Central Rail Station, and his Majesty, Emperor Meiji approved.
The station was finished over ten years later, complete with three stories and 8.9 million solid, red bricks! In addition to the station itself, a 90-room hotel had also been included in the design. Tokyo Station served as visual masterpiece of business and wealth in the city, and symbolised the strong connection between the Imperial Palace and the arising status of modern Japan.
In current day, Tokyo Station still remains the central station for the capital. It welcomes over 450,000 users daily and runs more than 4000 trains every single day! The station consists of 14 platforms in total now, with 10 outside and 4 underground. This might sound a little chaotic, but here in Japan, we pride ourselves on organization! Today, it is so much more than a station. We considered it to be a small city, complete with shops, restaurants, hotels and supermarkets. The basement also hosts bento’s shops, alongside Character Street and the great Ramen Street.
Whether you’re just traveling through or you’re coming to visit for the day, be sure to take a little time out for one of our proudest creations. We love it, and are almost certain you will, too! Happy travels!
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THE DOJO
Experiencing the Infamous Meiji JinguHere in the heart of Tokyo, lies a Shinto Shrine dedicated to the souls of both Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, hence the name, Meiji Jingu. Emperor Meiji was the first Emperor ...
02:33
Experiencing the Infamous Meiji Jingu
Here in the heart of Tokyo, lies a Shinto Shrine dedicated to the souls of both Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, hence the name, Meiji Jingu. Emperor Meiji was the first Emperor to reign modern Japan, and was massively influential in opening Japan up to the rest of the world. Once he became Emperor in 1868, Meiji used his power to bring the Meiji Restoration to light, ending the Tokugawa government rule. After their passing, the Meiji Shrine was created to ‘enshrine their souls’, officially dedicated to them on 1st November 1920. Sadly, the original shrine didn’t survive World War Two, and all of the buildings burnt down in 1945 due to extensive firebombing. Through public donations, the Meiji Shire was rebuilt in 1958, and the souls of the Emperor and the Empress were transferred in a traditional ceremony on 31st October 1958. The grounds were also replanted, with an astronomical donation of over 170,000 trees from all over Japan. To this day, the Meiji Jingu consists of its main offering hall, a treasure museum and an inner garden area, amongst the thick greenery. Be sure to check out the gardens in June to watch the irises come into bloom! Meiji Jingu is by far the most celebrated shrine in Tokyo as it is home to many ceremonies and festivals, all year round. Over New Year, we have over three million people pay a visit to the central hall where they can experience the Hatsumode custom - more commonly known as the first shrine visit. Weddings are often seen over weekends throughout the area, too - you may even catch a glimpse of the bride in their traditional white hooded kimono! Please note that as we are due to celebrate the Meiji Jingu’s 100th Anniversary in 2020, some exterior renovations are beginning later this year, so Treasure House will be closed for the duration. Check out the official website for further updates. Either way, we’re sure we’ll see you there! For now, please enjoy the beautiful grounds and take some time to soak in its wonderful surroundings. We really look forward to seeing you here at Meiji Jingu again very soon. ![]() ![]() We just need your phone...
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THE DOJO
Discovering the Kusunoki Masashige Bronzed StatueHere on the corner of the National Garden Plaza stands a unique statue of the late Kusunoki Masashige. This bronze sculpture is dedicated to a samurai warrior who became famous for...
02:51
Discovering the Kusunoki Masashige Bronzed Statue
Here on the corner of the National Garden Plaza stands a unique statue of the late Kusunoki Masashige. This bronze sculpture is dedicated to a samurai warrior who became famous for his allegiance to the Imperial House. It is believed the positioning of the statue reflects his ever-lasting loyalty by keeping his eyes focused on the Nijubashi Bridge. The Imperial House represents the extended family of the Japanese Emperor under current reign. Dating back to the years between 1294 and 1336, a 14th-century samurai fought for the reigning Emperor Go-Daigo in a battle to regain Japan’s rulership against the Kamakura Shogunate. His loyalty was viewed as fierce and unforgiving, though his military campaign lasted nothing short of six years, until his demise on July 4th 1336. To this day, his honour has received the highest known decorations from the Japanese Government. Though not seen as the strongest physically, Kusunoki was a brilliant strategist, and his defiant tactics created a disruption of power. He cunningly defended two fortresses, though he was later betrayed by one of the generals. Realising a change of strategy was necessary, Kusunoki provided two arguments to Go-Daigo of which both were ignored, and in a true test of character, went to war with his army against Takauji and his men. He had always obeyed his Emperor’s wishes, and ultimately this came to be his final battle. In 1891, the Tokyo Fine Arts School was asked by the House of Sumitomo to execute a project dedicated to Kusunoki Masashige. Koun Takada, Kisai Yamada and Sessei Okazaki spent a total of ten years completed the statue, using only copper from the mines. Their artistry excelled all expectations and it shows. The intricate details found within the piece are a fine example of how important the true representation of Kusunoki really is. Due to his outstanding example of bold loyalty, Kusunoki is celebrated to this day in Japan. He is considered a beacon of virtue countrywide, hence his prominent stance in our country’s capital, Tokyo. Be sure to head on down to the plaza to soak up this rich Japanese culture firsthand, and take a moment to reflect on his brilliance. We love the story of Kusunoki and believe we could all learn a thing or two about loyalty from him! ![]() ![]() We just need your phone...
After entering the number, the mobile send button will be available to you in all items. Send to mobile
After a short one-time registration, all the articles will be opened to you and we will be able to send you the content directly to the mobile (SMS) with a click.
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Here in the heart of Tokyo, lies a Shinto Shrine dedicated to the souls of both Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, ...
Here in the heart of Tokyo, lies a Shinto Shrine dedicated to the souls of both Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, hence the name, Meiji Jingu. Emperor Meiji was the first Emperor to reign modern Japan, and was massively influential in opening Japan up to the rest of the world. Once he became Emperor in 1868, Meiji used his power to bring the Meiji Restoration to light, ending the Tokugawa government rule. After their passing, the Meiji Shrine was created to ‘enshrine their souls’, officially dedicated to them on 1st November 1920.
Sadly, the original shrine didn’t survive World War Two, and all of the buildings burnt down in 1945 due to extensive firebombing. Through public donations, the Meiji Shire was rebuilt in 1958, and the souls of the Emperor and the Empress were transferred in a traditional ceremony on 31st October 1958. The grounds were also replanted, with an astronomical donation of over 170,000 trees from all over Japan. To this day, the Meiji Jingu consists of its main offering hall, a treasure museum and an inner garden area, amongst the thick greenery. Be sure to check out the gardens in June to watch the irises come into bloom!
Meiji Jingu is by far the most celebrated shrine in Tokyo as it is home to many ceremonies and festivals, all year round. Over New Year, we have over three million people pay a visit to the central hall where they can experience the Hatsumode custom - more commonly known as the first shrine visit. Weddings are often seen over weekends throughout the area, too - you may even catch a glimpse of the bride in their traditional white hooded kimono!
Please note that as we are due to celebrate the Meiji Jingu’s 100th Anniversary in 2020, some exterior renovations are beginning later this year, so Treasure House will be closed for the duration. Check out the official website for further updates. Either way, we’re sure we’ll see you there!
For now, please enjoy the beautiful grounds and take some time to soak in its wonderful surroundings. We really look forward to seeing you here at Meiji Jingu again very soon.
After entering the number, the mobile send button will be available to you in all items.
Here on the corner of the National Garden Plaza stands a unique statue of the late Kusunoki Masashige. This bronze ...
Here on the corner of the National Garden Plaza stands a unique statue of the late Kusunoki Masashige. This bronze sculpture is dedicated to a samurai warrior who became famous for his allegiance to the Imperial House. It is believed the positioning of the statue reflects his ever-lasting loyalty by keeping his eyes focused on the Nijubashi Bridge. The Imperial House represents the extended family of the Japanese Emperor under current reign.
Dating back to the years between 1294 and 1336, a 14th-century samurai fought for the reigning Emperor Go-Daigo in a battle to regain Japan’s rulership against the Kamakura Shogunate. His loyalty was viewed as fierce and unforgiving, though his military campaign lasted nothing short of six years, until his demise on July 4th 1336. To this day, his honour has received the highest known decorations from the Japanese Government.
Though not seen as the strongest physically, Kusunoki was a brilliant strategist, and his defiant tactics created a disruption of power. He cunningly defended two fortresses, though he was later betrayed by one of the generals. Realising a change of strategy was necessary, Kusunoki provided two arguments to Go-Daigo of which both were ignored, and in a true test of character, went to war with his army against Takauji and his men. He had always obeyed his Emperor’s wishes, and ultimately this came to be his final battle.
In 1891, the Tokyo Fine Arts School was asked by the House of Sumitomo to execute a project dedicated to Kusunoki Masashige. Koun Takada, Kisai Yamada and Sessei Okazaki spent a total of ten years completed the statue, using only copper from the mines. Their artistry excelled all expectations and it shows. The intricate details found within the piece are a fine example of how important the true representation of Kusunoki really is.
Due to his outstanding example of bold loyalty, Kusunoki is celebrated to this day in Japan. He is considered a beacon of virtue countrywide, hence his prominent stance in our country’s capital, Tokyo. Be sure to head on down to the plaza to soak up this rich Japanese culture firsthand, and take a moment to reflect on his brilliance. We love the story of Kusunoki and believe we could all learn a thing or two about loyalty from him!
After entering the number, the mobile send button will be available to you in all items.
|
THE DOJOExperiencing the Infamous Meiji Jingu |
02:33
|
Experiencing the Infamous Meiji Jingu
Here in the heart of Tokyo, lies a Shinto Shrine dedicated to the souls of both Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, hence the name, Meiji Jingu. Emperor Meiji was the first Emperor to reign modern Japan, and was massively influential in opening Japan up to the rest of the world. Once he became Emperor in 1868, Meiji used his power to bring the Meiji Restoration to light, ending the Tokugawa government rule. After their passing, the Meiji Shrine was created to ‘enshrine their souls’, officially dedicated to them on 1st November 1920. Sadly, the original shrine didn’t survive World War Two, and all of the buildings burnt down in 1945 due to extensive firebombing. Through public donations, the Meiji Shire was rebuilt in 1958, and the souls of the Emperor and the Empress were transferred in a traditional ceremony on 31st October 1958. The grounds were also replanted, with an astronomical donation of over 170,000 trees from all over Japan. To this day, the Meiji Jingu consists of its main offering hall, a treasure museum and an inner garden area, amongst the thick greenery. Be sure to check out the gardens in June to watch the irises come into bloom! Meiji Jingu is by far the most celebrated shrine in Tokyo as it is home to many ceremonies and festivals, all year round. Over New Year, we have over three million people pay a visit to the central hall where they can experience the Hatsumode custom - more commonly known as the first shrine visit. Weddings are often seen over weekends throughout the area, too - you may even catch a glimpse of the bride in their traditional white hooded kimono! Please note that as we are due to celebrate the Meiji Jingu’s 100th Anniversary in 2020, some exterior renovations are beginning later this year, so Treasure House will be closed for the duration. Check out the official website for further updates. Either way, we’re sure we’ll see you there! For now, please enjoy the beautiful grounds and take some time to soak in its wonderful surroundings. We really look forward to seeing you here at Meiji Jingu again very soon. ![]() ![]() We just need your phone...
After entering the number, the mobile send button will be available to you in all items. Send to mobile
After a short one-time registration, all the articles will be opened to you and we will be able to send you the content directly to the mobile (SMS) with a click.
![]() We sent you!
The option to cancel sending by email and mobile Will be available in the sent email.
|
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THE DOJODiscovering the Kusunoki Masashige Bronzed Statue |
02:51
|
Discovering the Kusunoki Masashige Bronzed Statue
Here on the corner of the National Garden Plaza stands a unique statue of the late Kusunoki Masashige. This bronze sculpture is dedicated to a samurai warrior who became famous for his allegiance to the Imperial House. It is believed the positioning of the statue reflects his ever-lasting loyalty by keeping his eyes focused on the Nijubashi Bridge. The Imperial House represents the extended family of the Japanese Emperor under current reign. Dating back to the years between 1294 and 1336, a 14th-century samurai fought for the reigning Emperor Go-Daigo in a battle to regain Japan’s rulership against the Kamakura Shogunate. His loyalty was viewed as fierce and unforgiving, though his military campaign lasted nothing short of six years, until his demise on July 4th 1336. To this day, his honour has received the highest known decorations from the Japanese Government. Though not seen as the strongest physically, Kusunoki was a brilliant strategist, and his defiant tactics created a disruption of power. He cunningly defended two fortresses, though he was later betrayed by one of the generals. Realising a change of strategy was necessary, Kusunoki provided two arguments to Go-Daigo of which both were ignored, and in a true test of character, went to war with his army against Takauji and his men. He had always obeyed his Emperor’s wishes, and ultimately this came to be his final battle. In 1891, the Tokyo Fine Arts School was asked by the House of Sumitomo to execute a project dedicated to Kusunoki Masashige. Koun Takada, Kisai Yamada and Sessei Okazaki spent a total of ten years completed the statue, using only copper from the mines. Their artistry excelled all expectations and it shows. The intricate details found within the piece are a fine example of how important the true representation of Kusunoki really is. Due to his outstanding example of bold loyalty, Kusunoki is celebrated to this day in Japan. He is considered a beacon of virtue countrywide, hence his prominent stance in our country’s capital, Tokyo. Be sure to head on down to the plaza to soak up this rich Japanese culture firsthand, and take a moment to reflect on his brilliance. We love the story of Kusunoki and believe we could all learn a thing or two about loyalty from him! ![]() ![]() We just need your phone...
After entering the number, the mobile send button will be available to you in all items. Send to mobile
After a short one-time registration, all the articles will be opened to you and we will be able to send you the content directly to the mobile (SMS) with a click.
![]() We sent you!
The option to cancel sending by email and mobile Will be available in the sent email.
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