Must-Try Foods In Meiji Shrine (Tokyo) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Japan

The Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, does not directly have its own food history because it is primarily a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. However, Japanese cuisine, including the food culture surrounding this area, has been deeply influenced by the era of Emperor Meiji. During the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, Japan opened up to Western influences, which included the introduction of new cooking methods and ingredients that expanded Japanese cuisine beyond its traditional dishes. Within Tokyo, and by extension near Meiji Shrine, one can find a blend of traditional Japanese food and more modern interpretations that have become a part of Japan's rich culinary landscape.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Japan

1. Tofu Dishes (Soybean Curd) - Veg: Traditional Japanese tofu served in various styles like silken, firm, or fried.
2. Tempura - Veg/Non-Veg: A mixture of battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood.
3. Sushi - Non-Veg: A popular dish of vinegared rice paired with a variety of ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits.
4. Soba Noodles - Veg/Non-Veg: Thin buckwheat noodles typically served chilled with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth.
5. Onigiri - Veg/Non-Veg: Rice balls filled with a range of ingredients like pickled plums (umeboshi) or salted salmon.
6. Kaiseki Ryori - Veg/Non-Veg: A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that emphasizes seasonal and local ingredients.
7. Miso Soup - Veg/Non-Veg: A traditional Japanese soup consisting of a stock called "dashi" into which softened miso paste is mixed, along with tofu and seaweed.
8. Yakitori - Non-Veg: Skewered and grilled chicken, often prepared with different parts of the chicken.
9. Matcha Desserts - Veg: Various sweets and ice creams flavored with matcha green tea.
10. Okonomiyaki - Veg/Non-Veg: A savory Japanese pancake containing a variety of ingredients like cabbage and other vegetables, often customizable with additional toppings.

Top Famous Restaurants in Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Japan

While there are no restaurants within Meiji Shrine itself, the surrounding Harajuku and Shibuya districts are home to a wealth of dining options. Below are some of the top famous restaurants in the vicinity of Meiji Shrine:

• AFURI Harajuku
  3-63-1 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

  Famous Food: Yuzu Shio Ramen (Non-Veg)

• Takeshita Street Vendors
  Takeshita Street, Jingumae 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

  Famous Food: Crepes (Veg/Non-Veg Options)

• Gonpachi Nishiazabu
  1-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo

  Famous Food: Soba Noodles (Veg/Non-Veg Options)

• Kawaii Monster Cafe Harajuku
  YM square building 4F, 4-31-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

  Famous Food: Colorful and creatively presented dishes (Veg/Non-Veg Options)

• Omotesando Koffee
  4-15-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

  Famous Food: Coffee and Baked Custard Cube (Veg)

Many of these restaurants offer a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, catering to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences.