I visited Yanaka Cemetery because I wanted to find the tomb of Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find it—the cemetery is very large, and I couldn’t locate a clear map or guide to the notable graves. Maybe I just didn’t know where to look 😄
Even so, I really enjoyed exploring the area. While walking around, I came across several notable tombs, including Fukuchi Genichiro, who played an important role in Japan’s journalism history. Some of the graves include information in both Japanese and English, which made it easier to understand their historical significance.
Beyond its historical value, Yanaka Cemetery is also known as a beautiful sakura spot. The main path is lined with cherry blossom trees, which must be stunning during spring. I visited in January, but I was lucky to still find one sakura tree in bloom—it was unexpectedly beautiful.
Overall, I think Yanaka Cemetery is a very interesting and meaningful place to visit, especially if you’re curious about notable figures in Japanese history. I would love to come back again—hopefully during sakura season—and try to explore more of the important tombs.
Perhaps an odd place to visit on vacation, but I really enjoyed the time I spent walking around. It's a very peaceful place and the grounds are so well maintained. I really liked the playground they have on-site as well. Cemeteries are a place to visit the people you love and kids should feel comfortable.
One of Tokyo’s largest cemeteries, it’s quite large but still very peaceful. It’s quite pleasant to stroll around there.
It’s just a cemetery, so don’t expect much more than that, although some seasons are probably more beautiful than others (I visited last December).
Personally, I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the visit. I also recommend stopping by the nearby Tennōji Temple.
Large old cemetery. Peacful area to explore with multiple shrines and many noblemen tombs.
Few playgrounds nicely includes bringing life into this rest place.
A peaceful and beautiful cemetery full of history. Walking among the old trees and monuments gives a real sense of Japan’s past. Surprised it only has 4.1 stars—definitely worth a visit.
