Meiji Shrine (明治神宮)

Built in 1920, this shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. The 70-hectare man-made forest was built by 110,000 young volunteers using over 100,000 pieces of lumber donated from all over the country. Talk about a group effort! It’s also known as a “power spot” that is said to be imbued with the sincerity of both the trees and humankind. Let your body and soul be purified as you stroll along the gravel path to the heart of the shrine.

Entry to the Imperial Garden costs 500 yen, but it’s worth it, especially in June when the Japanese irises are in full bloom. The shrine opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.