Private Meiji Shrine Tour: Exclusive VIP Guide
Guided by a fluent English-speaking guide with official Meiji Jinguu membership, you will explore the true spirit of Japan. Gain insights into authentic customs and traditions, and learn about the shrine's rich history. During this tour, you will gain exclusive access to sacred areas not usually open to the public and have the rare chance to witness a Shinto ritual, providing a deep cultural experience.
A professional photographer will accompany you, capturing over 30 stunning photos at significant moments so you can share your memories with family, friends, or on social media.
As part of the experience, you will also enjoy a traditional onigiri (rice balls). These are not the usual convenience store varieties, but handmade with premium Japanese rice. They can be enjoyed as a pre-tour breakfast or post-tour snack, adding a local touch to your experience.
This unique tour offers exclusive access, a profound cultural journey, and lasting memories you won’t want to miss.
Options
Exclusive Plan
What's included in Private Meiji Shrine Tour: Exclusive VIP Guide
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Start your trip with something calm, authentic, and uniquely Japanese. We’ll guide you through the quiet forest paths of Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most iconic spiritual spots. The highlight? Witnessing a traditional Shinto prayer ceremony (gokito)—a ritual few visitors ever see. Your guide knows Meiji Shrine and has lived abroad, offering insights that connect Japanese culture to your own. It’s a thoughtful, relaxed way to explore Japan more deeply. Inside a wooden hall with high ceilings and the scent of cypress, priests chant ancient prayers. Flutes and drums echo through the space, creating a calm, powerful atmosphere. You don’t need to understand the words—just sit, listen, and feel. Many describe it as calming, even moving. This isn’t about religion—it’s about connecting to something quietly powerful and uniquely Japanese. ▶︎What to Expect ・Walk the peaceful path through Meiji Shrine’s forest ・Step into a ceremonial hall for the ritual ・Watch priests perform sacred chants and music ・Soak in the stillness that defines Japanese tradition ▶︎Is This For You? Perfect for curious travelers wanting more than sightseeing. A meaningful way to begin your Japan adventure.
Inclusions
- Fee to experience the traditional Japanese praying ritual
- All Fees and Taxes
- Coins for the offering box, and for buying any goods.
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Meiji Jinguu requires a lot of walking. May not be suited to people who have difficulty in walking (wheelchair and pram available)
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Please come to JR Yoyogi station. There is a map on the left when you walk outside the WEST gate. Legit Japan staff will be waiting for you in a Japanese like outfit.
