Musashi Imperial Graveyard: Resting place of Emperors
The Musashi Imperial Graveyard is for photographers captivated by Japan’s Imperial legacy. It offers a glimpse into history. This cemetery in Hachioji’s hills is the resting place of Emperors Showa, Taisho, and their wives. It stands quietly in a dense forest 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 a royal connection.
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 is 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.
Everything is elegant. The courtyards in front of the tombs have huge torii (the gates at Shinto shrines) and manicured trees. Staircases go 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. Some space is 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. Hirohito followed him in 1989.
Musashi Imperial Graveyard Points of Interest
- Burial mounds of the two emperors and their wives.
- Torii (Shinto shrines gates).
- 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 dark.
- Visit in autumn when the leaves are at their best.
- The tombs are off-limits, so you can’t get close. Take a zoom lens to focus on something within the tomb areas.
- The cemetery has a strong police.
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.
One last thing! You might see a member of the Imperial family. They go there to pay respects to their ancestors occasionally. Cross your fingers if you visit. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More cemetery articles:
External related websites:
- Musashi Imperial Graveyard (official website)
- Under Pressure (a great read about the Taisho Emperor on Uneasy Lies The Crown)