Personal prayer at Meiji Shrine!

Personal Prayer at Meiji Shrine: A Deep Dive into Japanese Spirituality

Visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine is often a highlight for travelers exploring Tokyo, thanks to its serene grounds and historical significance. This tour offers a rare chance to go beyond sightseeing and connect with the spiritual essence of this sacred site. Instead of just wandering through the towering torii gates and lush forested paths, you’ll participate in a guided personal prayer experience that includes traditional rituals, music, and blessings from shrine priests.

One thing that stands out about this tour is how it demystifies Shinto practices, making them accessible to those unfamiliar with Japanese customs. The inclusion of a personal prayer session, where you write your wishes and receive an amulet, offers a meaningful, tangible connection to the spiritual traditions. On the flip side, some travelers might find the process a bit structured and formal, especially if they’re expecting a casual sightseeing tour.

This experience is well-suited for those interested in authentic cultural encounters, spiritual reflection, or wanting to deepen their understanding of Japanese religious practices. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided insights and are eager to participate in rituals that can feel quite personal and profound.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Engagement: The tour provides an intimate look into Shinto beliefs and practices, not just a surface-level visit.
• Guided Rituals: Learn proper etiquette for passing through torii gates and participating in shrine ceremonies.
• Personal Connection: Write your wishes, receive blessings, and take home a meaningful amulet.
• Professional Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help clarify the rituals and customs, enriching your experience.
• Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional court music (gagaku) and shrine maiden dances, performed with reverence and artistry.
• Well-Structured: The itinerary is carefully designed, with enough time to appreciate each element without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect

Meeting at the Second Torii Gate

The tour kicks off at the iconic second torii gate, a perfect photo spot with sake and wine barrels, and a waka poem displayed prominently. Here, your guide will explain the significance of the torii and the symbols surrounding it, providing context that most casual visitors miss. You’ll also get tips on how to photograph the site respectfully, which is especially helpful if you want memorable shots that honor the tradition.

Walking Through the Approach

From there, you’ll stroll towards the main shrine buildings, passing through the third torii gate. Along the way, your guide will instruct you on the correct etiquette—like how to properly pass through torii gates and the significance of certain symbols. Several visitors in reviews mentioned how common it is for foreigners to perform these rituals incorrectly, which can come across as disrespectful—so this guidance adds real value.

Purification Rituals

Your next stop is the purification fountain, where you’ll learn how to cleanse your hands and mouth—an essential step before worshipping. Participating in the traditional offering ritual (coins, bows, claps, final bow) allows you to engage with the practices that deepen your connection to the deities. The guide’s explanations make these steps more meaningful, especially for those new to Shinto.

Personal Prayer and Blessings

The core of this experience is the personal prayer session in the Kaguraden (music hall). Here, you’ll fill out a Japanese application form indicating your prayer intentions—whether for health, safety, love, or success. The process, which involves submitting the form along with a fee (starting at 5,000 yen), is simplified with the guide’s help, ensuring non-Japanese speakers can participate smoothly.

Once registered, you’ll witness a purification ritual performed by priests, accompanied by gagaku, an ancient court music that UNESCO recognizes as an intangible cultural heritage. The shrine maidens dance gracefully, adding a visual element of tradition that elevates the entire experience. One reviewer described this as “a cleansing of the heart,” highlighting how moving and authentic it can be.

Sacred Offerings and Sacred Sake

The ceremony concludes with the offering of sacred items (shinsen) and the sharing of omiki (sacred sake). You’ll receive a small cup, poured by a shrine maiden, and drink as part of the ritual’s final blessing. Many find this moment both calming and uplifting, feeling it imbues their wishes with spiritual power. The practice of sharing offerings like nori (seaweed) as a spiritual gift adds a tangible, memorable element.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

The tour costs $98 per person, which on paper might seem a little steep compared to general shrine visits. However, considering the level of guided insight, participation in authentic rituals, and the exclusive access to performances like gagaku and shrine maiden dances, it offers a high-value experience.

Most travelers who book this tour do so an average of 65 days in advance, indicating its popularity among those seeking a deeper cultural connection. The fee for personal prayer, at 5,000 yen, is paid directly at the shrine, so overall costs are transparent.

What the Tour Includes

• Guided walkthrough of shrine etiquette and history
• Personal prayer and blessing session
• Participation in purification rituals and traditional music and dance
• Assistance with Japanese application forms
• A sacred amulet (Ofuda) as a keepsake

Exclusions

• Prayer fee (5,000 yen) paid at the shrine
• Any additional amulets or souvenirs purchased privately

Practical Considerations

The tour’s duration of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes strikes a balance—ample time for meaningful participation without feeling overly lengthy. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth check-in process. However, some reviews noted that the guide’s communication on the day could be better—specifically, one guest was late and couldn’t reach the guide, which caused some frustration. It’s advisable to be punctual and confirm your schedule ahead of time.

The Itinerary in Detail

Step 1: Meeting at the Second Torii Gate

Here, you’ll get a brief history of this iconic gate, learn about the sake and wine barrels, and see the waka poem that celebrates the shrine’s beauty. Your guide’s explanations will enhance your understanding of these symbols, making photo opportunities both respectful and meaningful.

Step 2: Walking to the Third Torii

On this walk, you’ll learn correct practices for passing under torii gates—a detail many travelers overlook or do incorrectly. Your guide’s tips help ensure you perform these rituals respectfully, which is important since many visitors unintentionally perform them improperly.

Step 3: Purification Ritual

This involves rinsing hands and mouth at the purification fountain, then offering coins and bowing, clapping, and bowing again. It’s the first step to a respectful worship experience. Several reviewers appreciated this guidance, noting how it transformed the act from a mere tradition into a genuine spiritual act.

Step 4: Filling Out Prayer Forms

You’ll be handed a Japanese form to specify your wishes. The guide helps translate and navigate this process, which is crucial because the forms are only in Japanese. You’ll also pay the prayer fee (from 5,000 yen), making this part accessible despite the language barrier.

Step 5: Sacred Rituals and Performances

Once registered, you witness priests perform purification with sacred tools, accompanied by gagaku, the ancient court music, and dance by shrine maidens. These stunning performances are set in the Kagura Hall and add a ceremonial, almost otherworldly, atmosphere.

Step 6: Sacred Offerings and Sake

The ceremony concludes with the offering of sacred items and drinking of omiki. The shared sake makes the blessing feel tangible and communal—an experience many reviewers found deeply spiritual and satisfying.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a wonderful pick for travelers eager to connect with Japan’s spiritual culture in an intimate, guided setting. It’s ideal if you:

• Want an in-depth cultural experience beyond typical sightseeing
• Are interested in traditional Japanese rituals and music
• Appreciate guided explanations that enhance understanding
• Prefer participating in rituals rather than just observing
• Seek a peaceful, reflective activity in Tokyo’s bustling city

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues (due to the walking and seated ritual), or travelers expecting a casual, informal visit without guided explanations. Also, if you’re uncomfortable with Japanese language or formal religious practices, some parts might feel a bit overwhelming.

FAQ

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for each ritual and explanation without feeling rushed.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but those with pain or difficulty sitting straight might find some ritual parts less comfortable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, respectful clothing is recommended. Since you’ll be walking and participating in rituals, avoid overly casual or revealing outfits.

Can I take photos during the ceremony?
Yes, at most locations photos are allowed, but some areas restrict photography. Your guide will clarify where it’s acceptable.

Is the prayer fee included in the price?
No, the prayer fee (starting from 5,000 yen) is paid directly at the shrine.

What if I’m late for the tour?
Timeliness is important, especially since the guide’s schedule is tightly planned. One review mentioned a late guest, which caused some issues, so plan to arrive promptly.

Is this experience suitable for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, guides assist with translation, especially for completing forms and understanding rituals.

Final Thoughts

Opting for this personal prayer tour at Meiji Shrine offers more than just a sightseeing visit; it provides a chance to partake in centuries-old traditions under expert guidance. It’s ideal for those wanting to connect deeply with Japanese spirituality, learn respectful customs, and enjoy traditional performances in an authentic setting.

While it has some logistical considerations—like the need for punctuality and understanding that some parts involve Japanese language—it’s well worth the effort for a meaningful, memorable experience. For travelers curious about Shinto practices, or seeking a peaceful, reflective activity amidst Tokyo’s urban energy, this tour offers a respectful and enriching journey into Japan’s spiritual heart.

In short, this experience is best for culturally curious travelers who want to go beyond the surface, embrace tradition, and leave with a tangible token of their wishes and blessings. It’s a chance to step into the rituals that have sustained Japan’s spiritual life for generations, guided every step of the way.