Visiting the Meiji Jingu
造訪明治神宮
Shinto shrines hold a special importance in Japanese culture, and there are many of them in Tokyo. One of the most important Shinto shrines is the Meiji Shrine. Having been built in 1920, this is not the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan. It does not derive its importance from age but from the spirits it's dedicated to. Meiji Shrine honors the beloved Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
神社在日本文化中具有特殊的重要地位，而東京有許多這樣的神社。其中一個最重要的神社是明治神宮。建於西元 1920 年，明治神宮並非日本最古老的神社。它的重要性不是來自存在多久，而在於它供奉的祖靈。明治神宮紀念著備受愛戴的明治天皇與昭憲皇太后。
The shrine's entrance gates, called "torii," are the largest in Japan. It's a good thing they're so big because a million people come through these torii on New Year's Day alone. When you enter or exit through a torii, remember to bow to show respect. It's a good idea to research all the etiquette you should follow when visiting Shinto shrines. Inside the shrine, you can make a wish, buy charms for good luck or health, and enjoy the tranquility and beautiful scenery.
明治神宮的入口大門，又名「鳥居」，是全日本最大的。幸好它們這麼大，因為光在新年那天就有一百萬人走過這些鳥居。當你進入或走出鳥居時，記得要鞠躬示敬。拜訪神社時先查好所有你應該要遵守的禮節是個好主意。在神社內，你可以許願、買幸運或健康御守，還有享受寧靜祥和及風景之美。
The forest on the grounds of the Meiji Shrine was planted specifically for this shrine. The shrine buildings are all built of Japanese cypress wood. You'll also want to spend time in the gardens. In the summer, over a hundred species of iris bloom.
明治神宮院子裡的森林是特別為這神社種下的。神社建物全是由日本柏木打造。你也會想在花園裡度過時光。夏天時，會有超過上百種的鳶尾花盛開。
The Meiji shrine is a place of beauty and peace, as well as unity for Tokyo and all of Japan. It's definitely something every visitor to Tokyo should experience.
明治神宮是個優美又祥和的地方，也是東京和全日本的融合。這絕對是每個到東京來的旅客應該要體驗的景點。
