Copyright © 2024 Tokyo in Pics | Powered by Tokyo in Pics
Somei Cemetery: A photo guide
Somei Cemetery is nestled in the back streets of Komagome. Don’t let its small size fool you; this unassuming spot packs some surprises, cherry blossoms, and grave designs. It brings suburban Tokyo alive. Let’s see why it is a must-visit for photographers and explorers alike!
As with many of these older Japanese cemeteries, the stars are the grave architecture. Those are what will grab the attention of all graveyard lovers! There are so many types. There are some with military connections and others that look like giant monoliths. Of course, you’ll find everything in between too!
Like Aoyama and Tama cemeteries, some famous people are interred there. But, the majority of these are from the literary and creative worlds. I doubt many of them are well-known overseas.
If you want to find anyone special, there is a map you can get at the office. One version of it is in English but only has limited information. The Japanese version is far more extensive. There is also a public map on a noticeboard across the road.
Somei Cemetery is a pleasant place. It is in a very suburban part of Tokyo. A sea of houses surround it. And on the west side is the temple of Jigenji. A literary figure lies there, the author Ryunosuke Akutagawa.
When is the best time to visit Somei Cemetery?
This is the surprise I talked about earlier. It’s the cherry blossoms. There are many Somei Yoshino trees. They make spring special. When among these graves when the flowers bloom is a fantastic experience. It’s right up there with Aoyama Cemetery.
Where is it?
Address: 5-5-1 Komagome, Toshima City, Tokyo (Japanese – 東京都豊島区駒込 5-5-1)
Here it is on Google Maps:
Closest train station
JR Sugamo on the Yamanote and Toei Mita Lines.
Opening Hours
The grounds are open 24 hours a day.
The administration office is open from 8:30 to 5:30.
Admission Fees
None
Foreign section
Like all the older cemeteries in Tokyo, Somei has a foreign section. The only person of note in it seems to be Loduska J. Wirick. She was an American missionary who was a qualified nurse and doctor!
Loduska cared for many Japanese soldiers during the 1904-1905 Russo-Japanese War. She was known as the “Nightingale of the Orient.” Her tombstone is interesting!
Photo spots near Somei Cemetery
Conclusion
Tama Cemetery is bigger, and Aoyama is more famous, but Somei is still interesting. Due to its age, some historical people are buried there. And its grave architecture is fascinating. The cherry blossoms are beautiful. It’s another great Tokyo photo spot.
I’ll visit Somei Cemetery again. So, expect these pictures and information to change at some point. As I learn more, I’ll update this article.
To learn more about places mentioned in this article, look at:
Leave questions and comments below.
External related websites:
- Somei Cemetery (official website)