What other travelers are saying about Zuihōden (Grave of Date Masamune)
The fact that all of this site is a mausoleum for Date Masamune is astounding. Date Masamune, a powerful samurai and daimyō, who founded the city known as sendai. He was also so important that 20 people committed junshi upon his death to follow him into the afterlife.
Unfortunately, many of the structures was destroyed during the firebombings in WW2, but have later been restored.
Many of the buildings bears amazing color schemes and are filled with beautiful figures and decorations.
The entrance fee was about 570 yen.
There are also goshuin available here and they are nice.
Very much recommend coming here.
Date Masamune was one of the most powerful feudal lords (daimyo) in Japanese history who founded Sendai city and ruled the region during the early Edo period. Known as the "One-Eyed Dragon" due to losing sight in his right eye as a child, he was a brilliant military strategist and cultural patron. He died in 1636 at age 70, and Zuihōden was built as his final resting place according to his wishes.
No, the current Zuihōden is a reconstruction. The original mausoleum was destroyed during Allied air raids in 1945 during World War II. It was meticulously rebuilt in 1979 using traditional Momoyama-period construction techniques and materials to recreate the structure's original grandeur. During the reconstruction process, archaeologists excavated and examined Date Masamune's remains, providing valuable historical insights.
Yes, Zuihōden is part of a complex containing three mausoleums. Alongside Date Masamune's main mausoleum are Kansenden, which houses his second son Date Tadamune, and Zennoden, containing his ninth son Date Tsunamune. All three structures feature similar architectural styles, though Masamune's mausoleum is the most elaborate. Visitors can view all three during their visit to the site.
Most visitors spend approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour exploring the entire site. This includes time to climb the stone staircase through the forest, view all three mausoleums, visit the small museum displaying artifacts like Masamune's helmet and armor fragments, and enjoy the peaceful wooded surroundings. If you wish to take photographs or visit during autumn foliage season, you may want to allow additional time.
A informative grave of a very noble lord.
The museum was only in Japanese, Chinese and Korean and so I didn't enter as I didn't want to translate everything. However the general atmosphere was relaxing, the grave was impressive and the cost was cheap.
Fair warning, it's on a steep hill, if you have COPD or anything that makes walking uphill a task. Consider wisely! There is a carpark that's free and takes about half the hill away.
Zuihōden is a beautifully designed mausoleum with rich historical significance, and visiting offers a calm, reflective experience. The pathway leading up through tall cedar trees sets a peaceful tone, and the main building’s ornate colors and detailed craftsmanship stand out as some of the finest examples of Momoyama-style architecture in the region.
The grounds are well maintained, and the small museum provides helpful background on Date Masamune and the history of the site. It’s not a large complex, but the combination of nature, architecture, and history makes it a meaningful stop.
The only drawback is that some areas can feel a bit crowded during peak hours, and the walk involves a fair number of stairs. Still, the atmosphere and cultural value make it worth the visit.
Beautiful place, even if the museum was closed for renovation. Quite an uphill walk, lots of stairs, but absolutely worth it. Take the Loople from the station for easy access.
Good and light exercise uphill.
Grave of Data Masamune along with more information of the next few generations of his family members. 🪦
Most of the buildings were destroyed during WWII, and these replicas are well preserved and restored post-war. English descriptions are mostly available.
