Meiji Gakuin University Chapel - Image 1
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Meiji Gakuin University Chapel

4.6
·22 reviews·Minato City, Japan

A historic Protestant chapel on Meiji Gakuin University's Shirokanedai campus, designed by Vories in 1916.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, 1 PM

Attend the 20-minute chapel hour.

CrowdLow
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Meiji Gakuin University Chapel - Image 1

Meiji Gakuin University Chapel

Best Time

Weekdays, 1 PM

Attend the 20-minute chapel hour.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Protestant chapel on Meiji Gakuin University's Shirokanedai campus, designed by Vories in 1916.

4.6
(22 reviews)

"A masterpiece of architecture by Vories, completed in 1916, with a simple and sturdy atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Modestly

As a place of worship, please dress respectfully. Avoid overly casual attire.

Quiet Hours

Maintain a quiet atmosphere. This is an active university campus and a place of worship.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Chapel Architecture

Historic Chapel Architecture

Shirokanedai Campus

A masterpiece by architect Vories, built in 1916 with a simple, sturdy, and quiet atmosphere.

Vories' Wedding Site

Vories' Wedding Site

Chapel Interior

The very church where architect Vories himself exchanged vows, adding a personal historical layer.

Pipe Organ

Pipe Organ

Chapel Interior

A beautiful new pipe organ was installed during renovations, enhancing the chapel's acoustics.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visits

This is a place of worship and learning. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor. Check visiting hours as access may be limited during classes or services.

Architectural Gem

The chapel is a historic architectural masterpiece. Appreciate its design and the stories it holds, especially its connection to architect Vories.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, 1 PM
Why
Attend the 20-minute chapel hour.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, outside chapel hour
Why
Experience quiet contemplation.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dress Modestly

As a place of worship, please dress respectfully. Avoid overly casual attire. Reddit

Quiet Hours

Maintain a quiet atmosphere. This is an active university campus and a place of worship. Reddit

Check Access

Visiting hours can vary. Confirm access before your visit, especially during academic events. Reddit

Architectural Appreciation

Take time to admire the 1916 architecture by Vories. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Modestly

As a place of worship, please dress respectfully. Avoid overly casual attire. Reddit

Quiet Hours

Maintain a quiet atmosphere. This is an active university campus and a place of worship. Reddit

Check Access

Visiting hours can vary. Confirm access before your visit, especially during academic events. Reddit

Architectural Appreciation

Take time to admire the 1916 architecture by Vories. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(22 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Meiji Gakuin University Chapel for its beautiful, simple architecture and serene atmosphere, noting its historical significance as a Vories design and the site of his wedding. The recent renovations, including earthquake-proofing and a new pipe organ, are also appreciated. Some visitors mention the need to be mindful of campus access and dress codes.

"chapel
51 years after graduating from Meiji University, my wife and I officially entered the school.
The way to enter was to fill out a visitor list in the guard room and write down the time when you returned.
The same building as 51 years ago is a chapel, maybe the main building? There were only four buildings: the History Museum (formerly the Alumni Association Office) and Building 10 (formerly the Beersheba Dining Hall). The slightly scary club room in the basement of the old cafeteria had been replaced with a beautiful brown library building.
I also wondered if Meigaku had a lot of money.

I don't remember, but I'm not sure if it was once a week at Meigaku High School where we were made to sing the ``Hymn Doxology'' every day in the chapel. I forgot the number of the doxology. I think what I remember was ``Ametsuchikozorite.'' I remembered that I was asked to play ``Uruwashi no Shirayuri'' in class, and that I liked it and started playing it myself on the piano, but my mother warned me not to do it because it was a song for a funeral.
There used to be a playground between the main building and the chapel, but now there are two buildings that look like mysterious spaceships.

I took the date course to Meguro, but strangely, Shirokane Elementary School, Medical Research Institute, and Nature Educational Garden were still the same as before.
On the way, I visited Inageya and Donki."

とaさ

"This church is located on the Shirokanedai campus of Meiji Gakuin University, and was built in 1916 (Taisho 5) by architect Voris. It is also known that Vooris himself held his wedding ceremony at this church. In the 2000s, renovation work was carried out over a period of about two years, during which earthquake-proofing work and a new pipe organ were installed."

D. Zawa

"The chapel where the designer, Vories, held his wedding ceremony is a masterpiece of architecture completed in 1916."

A N

What People Like

Beautiful, simple architecture
Serene atmosphere
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited visitor info
Need for respectful attire

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The chapel is located on the Shirokanedai campus of Meiji Gakuin University. It's accessible via public transport, with the nearest stations typically being Shirokanedai Station on the Namboku and Mita subway lines. From the station, it's a short walk to the campus. Reddit

Information on visitor parking is limited. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach the campus to avoid any potential parking issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No ticket is typically required for general visits. However, you may need to sign in at the guard room upon arrival and adhere to campus visitor policies. Reddit

The chapel holds a 20-minute service at 1 PM on weekdays. General visiting hours outside of services may vary and it's best to confirm with the university directly. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to attend the 20-minute chapel hour held at 1 PM on weekdays. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The chapel is a masterpiece of architecture designed by Vories and completed in 1916. It's known for its simple, sturdy, and quiet Protestant church atmosphere without fancy decorations. Reddit

Yes, it is a Protestant church and hosts a daily chapel hour at 1 PM on weekdays. Reddit

In the 2000s, the chapel underwent significant renovation, including earthquake-proofing work and the installation of a new pipe organ. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful, especially during services or if classes are in session. Reddit

🎫 📚 History & Significance

The chapel was designed by architect Vories, who also held his own wedding ceremony there. Reddit

The chapel was completed in 1916, during the Taisho 5 era in Japan. Reddit

It's a significant architectural work by Vories and holds historical importance as a place of worship and a landmark on the Meiji Gakuin University campus. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Architecture Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate historical architecture, the Meiji Gakuin University Chapel is a must-see. Designed by William Merrell Vories and completed in 1916, its simple, sturdy, and unadorned Protestant style is a significant example of early 20th-century Western-influenced design in Japan. Pay close attention to the details that reflect Vories's thoughtful approach to space and form. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to learn about its recent renovations, which included earthquake-proofing and the installation of a new pipe organ. The fact that Vories himself held his wedding here adds a unique historical narrative to the building's appeal. Consider attending a weekday chapel hour to experience the space as it was intended to be used. Reddit

History Buffs

The chapel offers a tangible link to the past, particularly through its connection to architect Vories, who not only designed it but also married there. Visiting the chapel provides a glimpse into the early 20th-century campus development of Meiji Gakuin University. Reddit

Reflect on the chapel's enduring presence and the historical context of its construction. The renovations undertaken in the 2000s highlight the ongoing commitment to preserving this historical landmark for future generations. It’s a quiet corner of history waiting to be explored. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel by Vories

The Meiji Gakuin University Chapel stands as a testament to the architectural vision of William Merrell Vories. Completed in 1916, this Protestant church is celebrated for its simple yet sturdy design, embodying a quiet and unadorned aesthetic that is characteristic of Vories's work. The chapel's construction reflects a blend of Western architectural influences adapted to the Japanese context. It's not just a building; it's a piece of history, with Vories himself choosing this sacred space for his own wedding ceremony, adding a deeply personal layer to its significance. Reddit

Recent renovations in the 2000s have ensured the chapel's preservation and enhancement. These efforts included crucial earthquake-proofing work, a vital consideration for structures in Japan, and the installation of a new pipe organ. This modern addition not only respects the chapel's original purpose but also elevates its capacity for musical performance and worship, ensuring its continued use and beauty for generations to come. Reddit

A Place of Worship and Learning

Beyond its architectural merit, the Meiji Gakuin University Chapel serves a vital role as a place of worship and reflection within the university community. A daily chapel hour is held at 1 PM on weekdays, offering a brief period for students and faculty to gather for prayer, reflection, or musical performance. This tradition underscores the chapel's ongoing function as a spiritual center, providing a quiet respite amidst the academic bustle. Reddit

Visitors are welcome to attend these chapel hours, offering a unique opportunity to experience the chapel's serene atmosphere firsthand. The simple, unadorned interior, combined with the potential for organ music, creates a profoundly peaceful environment. It’s a space that encourages quiet contemplation and a connection to the university's historical and spiritual roots. Reddit

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