Meiji Jingu Gaien
02/01/2016
Meiji Jingu is commonly associated with the Jingu shrine in Harajuku, Tokyo.
In fact it is divided into two sections, Meiji Jingu Naien and Jingu Gaien. The Jingu shrine in Harajuku is Jingu Naien, and the park in Kasumi-Ga-Oka Machi in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo is Jingu Gaien.
Jingu Gaien is also referred to as Gaien-Mae. From the architectural point of view, Jingu Naien focuses on traditional designs, whereas Jingu Gaien has western influence.
It is very rare to have two contrasting design concepts at the same shrine, offering a unique atmosphere for visitors to experience. Gaien Mae area offers one of the relaxing spaces in Tokyo for those people who want to lead a quieter life-style.
Jingu Gaien is the western style garden, built with the aim of reflecting the Meiji Emperor’s achievements, within the park are Ginko avenue. Jingu Baseball Stadium and Tokyo Olympic stadium was used during the 1964 olympics, as well as for the 2020 olympics.
Taking a walk in this park, leaving the metropolitan behind, will allow some opportunities to understand Japan during Meiji era as well as to soak up the sports fever.
There are 4 ways to access Jingu Gaien; the first is from Sendagaya at Shinano Machi station on JR Sobu line;
the second is Aoyama Ichome at Gaien-Mae station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line;
the third is from Aoyama Ichome station on Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line;
and finally on foot from Kokuritu Kyogi-Jo station or Aoyama Ichome station on Toei Oedo line.
The highly recommended route is to get off the train at Gaien Mae station or Aoyama Ichome station, and take a stroll through Jingu Gaien.
After leaving the station, Ginko avenue can be located in front of the main entrance of Jingu Gaien. Take a walk around the park through this avenue. This avenue is one of the most famous place in Japan with its beautiful Ginko trees.
Many people may have witnessed this place in films or TV dramas. If you come to Tokyo during autumn, you must see this place!!!
Of course, the area offers massive opportunities to enjoy nature in the city. It is the most suitable place to sit on a long bench under the ginko trees, enjoy coffee, read a book, for those whom want to escape from reality, and just want to clear up your mind.
After passing the ginko avenue, you can see an open space with 6 baseball grounds.Visitors can often witness many players practicing baseball here.The efforts of the players will surely give positive feelings to the baseball fans.
The field also holds various events. For example, there is a Tokyo Design Week held in the end of October every year. During the 10-day event, designers around the world come together to display their new productions.
You must see this event too if you are in Japan during this time.<br/t>For any baseball fans, do not miss out to view the left section of Chuo Field.
The two major baseball stadiums in Tokyo are Tokyo Dome and Jingu Baseball Stadium. Jingu Stadium is famous for the home ground of Tokyo Yakult Swallows and Tokyo BIG 6 Baseball League. The modern professional baseball in Japan are mainly held in the all-weather indoor stadium, making Jingu Stadium a rare opportunity to enjoy baseball under a big blue sky, attracting many fans during the baseball season.
Even if you are not a baseball fan, please come and experience the heat of one of the most popular sport in Japan.
As you approach Jingu Baseball Stadium, you can pass by Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery which stands in the centre of Jingu Gaien.
This gallery that stands in front of the ginko avenue was built in 1926 at the site of old Aoyama Army Parade Ground. Inside the gallery are historical paintings of Meiji Emperor and Empress Shoken by the famous painters along with descriptions of the historical episodes.
The culture and history displayed in the gallery tell the story of Meiji Emperor from the period of Tokugawa shogunate government through Meiji era.
Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery is the location for any visitors who wants to enjoy Japanese tradition and cultures.
Please visit Jingu Gaien, passionate place to discover new Japan.
