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Tama Cemetery is a great place. Like others in the city, it contains a lot of history. And photography there can be rewarding. I have to admit that I don’t know this cemetery as well as others in Tokyo. But my first visit was great. I discovered it is the resting place of many makers, shakers, and giants of Japanese history.
The cemetery is about a forty-minute train ride from Shinjuku. It occupies 128 hectares. That is a huge area, so I doubt you could see it all in one day. When it opened in 1923, its name was Tama Graveyard. In 1935, it gained its current name. During World War Two, the Japanese airforce hid aircraft from Chofu Airport there.
The architecture and history are impressive. In that respect, it is the same as Aoyama, Zoshigaya, and Yanaka cemeteries. There are huge kanji-covered monoliths, enormous stone lanterns, and mound-shaped crypts. Some graves have Shinto and Buddhist icons, while others have Christian crosses. A columbarium is also on the grounds. There is one thing different here. The foreign area has many graves of people who seem to have had connections to the Middle East.
As with other Tokyo cemeteries, you’ll see some people had a good sense of humor. Others wanted to express their appreciation to their loved ones after death. They decorated their graves appropriately.
No large buildings or skyscrapers are near Tama Cemetery. Trees cover the grounds. It is quiet and peaceful. Spring is said to be an excellent time for a visit.
It is like a Who’s Who of Japanese historical figures. Here is an abbreviated list:
Look at the names on that list. Many of those people had a massive impact on Japanese history. Togo, Yamamoto, and Sorge influenced the course of world events. There are more. Tama Cemetery is the resting place of giants.
Many people say spring is best when the cherry blossoms bloom. I can vouch for that, as I have seen them. They are very good!
Tama Cemetery details
See the cemetery’s location and opening hours on the official website.
Wrapping up
There are many famous people and their graves to see at Tama Cemetery. Many of them were the makers and shakers of Japanese history. Luckily, most of them are easy to find.
Remember, it is a big place, so it is unlikely you’ll be able to see every grave of interest there. To avoid disappointment, plan your trip before you go. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll be able to see.
So, if you want an interesting place in Tokyo to photograph, or to walk, put Tama Cemetery on your list. It might be far out in the suburbs for some, but it is worth it. Please leave your questions and comments below.
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