Meiji Shrine

Exit Harjuku Station and your body is pushed into the foot traffic of the busy area.  You'll suddenly find yourself in a crowd of people that moves you in the direction of the huge Gap store across the street from the station.  Go left and you'll head down towards the entrance of Takeshita Dori.  Go right and you'll enjoy shopping and dining on the tree lined Omotesando Street.

If you don't cross the street and go towards your immediate right, you'll see a forested area and the entrance to the Meiji Shrine.  The grand torii gate is surrounded by tall trees and a pebbled walkway that provides a peaceful stroll.  The grounds are a hidden gem from the busy streets of Harajuku.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3002.html

 After passing through the gates, you'll walk about 10 minutes through the tree lined path.

We visited the shrine in the late afternoon and found that it wasn't busy.  There was a calm, peaceful area where people sat and meditated.

Beautiful trees surround the shrine area.

If you're not interested in shopping in Harajuku, visit the Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park!