DISCOVER THE MONUMENTS OF THE GINZA DISTRICT

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.

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!