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Musashi Imperial Graveyard – the best photo guide
The Musashi Imperial Graveyard is for photographers captivated by Japan’s Imperial legacy. It offers a rare, serene glimpse into the nation’s history. This cemetery in Hachioji’s hills is the resting place of the Emperors Showa and Taisho and their wives. It stands quietly in a dense forest far removed from city life. Amid towering torii gates and the solemn beauty of massive stone mounds, the air is reverent and timeless. This location invites those seeking solitude, beauty, and a touch of elegance.
It is a simple place. The entrance is large and spacious. A small garden and pond are on the right, and an administration building is on the left.
Behind the administration building is a small house used by official visitors. From there, a gravel road leads up to the tombs through a deep forest. The trees block most of the sights and sounds of the surrounding area. Inside, you have privacy and solitude.
Locals don’t take morning walks through it. There are no shops or drink vending machines. It’s not for dog walks. An air of quiet imperiousness pervades the grounds. This cemetery is unique in Tokyo.
Everything is elegant. The courtyards in front of the tombs have huge torii (the gates at Shinto shrines) and manicured trees. Staircases go up to a low fence with an Imperial seal on the entrance. It feels regal.
Past the fence are huge stone mound-like tombs. They are made of countless little stones. Each is about the size of a large man’s fist, and they interlock together. It’s a pity they are off-limits.
My favorite is that of Emperor Taisho. It is impressive. First, it appears to be the tallest mound. Second, the staircase is longer and more Imperial. There is one more thing. The wood, torii, and stone colors seem to be similar. My eyes are drawn to them.
The wives, Kojun and Teimei, are nearby. Yes, each person has their own plot. Husbands and wives weren’t buried together. There is some space between them. And while the Emperors’ tombs are the most impressive, the ladies have the prettiest.
Empress Kojun’s tomb is especially lovely. The stones of her mound seem to be lighter in color. It appears to be a little lower in height than the others. And the trees are a little further away from hers, and the stones are lighter in color. Her tomb is, without a doubt, very lovely.
A new section is near Emperor Taisho’s tomb. This one is still under construction, which will be for Emperor Heisei. He and his wife, Michiko, have commented in the media on how they would like to be buried. Apparently, they want something in line with the times. The public hasn’t seen any plans yet. I will comment on one thing here. As construction has cleared many trees, the noise from the road behind is now audible.
You might think this place is rarely visited, but it’s quite the opposite. I wouldn’t say many people go there, but the flow is constant. Sometimes, there’ll be tour groups.
A Brief History of the graveyard
Emperor Taisho was called the “Tokyo Emperor.” He was the first of his line to live his entire life in or near the city. A complex was needed for his eventual burial. Takao was chosen.
What can you photograph at Musashi Imperial Graveyard?
- Tombs of the Taisho and Showa Emperors. Their wives are near them.
- Torii (gates found at Shinto shrines).
- It has been reported that Emperor Emeritus Akihito and his wife will be cremated. The land for their tombs has been cleared, but no work has begun (as of November 21, 2020).
Photography tips
- The entrance to the tombs is through a deep forest. That area can be very dark.
- Try to visit in autumn, when the leaves change color.
- All the tombs are fenced and off-limits, so you won’t be able to get very close. Take a zoom lens to focus on something within the burial areas.
- The cemetery has a strong police presence, so don’t get too close to the tombs.
Similar photo spots in Tokyo
Where is Musashi Imperial Graveyard?
Address: 1833 Nagabusamachi, Hachioji, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train station:
Takao which is served by the following lines:
- Chuo
- Keio Takao
- Narita Express
It takes about fifteen minutes to walk to the cemetery from the station. The route is steep in some parts.
Opening hours:
9 AM to 4 PM
Admission costs:
None
Conclusion
If you are interested in the Imperial Family, visit the Musashi Imperial Graveyard! It is a beautiful place that has strong connections with Japanese history. And make sure to get some pictures because what is there is hard to find anywhere else. It’s an interesting Tokyo photo spot.
And one last thing! If you are fortunate, you might see a member of the Imperial family. They go there to pay respects to their ancestors on occasion. You might get lucky. Please leave questions and comments below.
External related websites:
- Musashi Imperial Graveyard (official webiste)