On the grounds of Meiji-jing奴 (accessed via the shrine's main approach) is the strolling garden, Meiji-jing奴 Gyoen. It once belonged to a feudal estate; after it came under imperial control, the Meiji Emperor himself designed the iris garden to please the Empress Sh艒ken. There are peaceful walks, a good dose of privacy at weekdays, and spectacular irises in June.