Hyperlocal Tokyo

The Meiji Jingu cafe is located right near Harajuku Station, and there's another one further back near the museum, but I personally prefer this one because of its unique atmosphere. I also like that the drink prices are relatively reasonable for a tourist spot. And the cakes are incredibly delicious! They seem to be from "Kanomi no Mori" in the Meiji Memorial Hall. However, they may not be available very early in the morning. When I first ordered, they weren't available yet, so I ordered something else and was eating when the cake arrived, so I ordered it as an add-on! It was around 10:30 am that day. It might vary depending on the day, but just for your reference.

I ordered a matcha ice cream at a woody cafe located within the Meiji Shrine grounds. It was packed with matcha made from young tea leaves ground with a stone mill, and it was so intensely matcha-flavored! It was so rich that I almost forgot it contained dairy. No wonder it's so popular. I also ordered a houjicha ice cream, and enjoyed its refreshing aroma while relaxing and gazing at the torii gate. It's rare to find a place like this, isn't it? It's an area secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. I spent a relaxing time in this refreshing space surrounded by trees. Matcha ice cream (¥500) Houjicha ice cream (¥500)

The terrace seating with a view of the Great Torii gate is fantastic. There's also a set menu where you get a discount on drinks if you order a sandwich or cake. My husband raved about the craft beer. The entrance has a ramp, so you can easily enter with a stroller. You order and pay first. The drink menu is extensive, including beer 😁. They have sandwiches, bread, cakes, and soft serve ice cream, so it's helpful to have something light to eat for a quick break. There are also restrooms. The interior is super stylish. Both walls are glass, so you can feel the outdoors, and the interior and furniture are made of wood, creating a very relaxing atmosphere. I want to stop by again when I visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, as it's a great place to relax 😊.

I was hoping for a cafe near the entrance of Meiji Jingu, and now there is one! I guess everyone thinks alike. It's so pleasant to have tea while watching the large birds. The cakes are also very luxurious, so for a self-service cafe, I think the offerings are quite extravagant. It's also nice to be able to have tea while looking at the newly renovated Harajuku Station and the grand torii gate of Meiji Jingu.

I visited around 2 PM on Obon (the Bon Festival). The entrance to Meiji Jingu Shrine is clearly visible from the terrace. You can relax while gazing at the torii gate (⛩️). There are also terrace seats, and it would be even more relaxing to spend time here during a cooler season.