Aoyama Cemetery: A Tranquil Oasis in Tokyo
Discover tranquility and history at Aoyama Cemetery, Tokyo's first public graveyard and a beautiful cherry blossom spot.
Aoyama Cemetery, located in the bustling Minato district, offers a peaceful respite from Tokyo's vibrant energy. Established in 1874 as Japan's first public cemetery, it holds historical importance and cultural significance. The cemetery was initially reserved for Japanese nobility but later opened to the public. The cemetery spans a vast 26 hectares and is the largest in Tokyo's 23 wards. It is the final resting place for many influential Japanese figures, including politicians like Ōkubo Toshimichi and Osachi Hamaguchi, writers such as Naoya Shiga, and other notable personalities. It also features a section known as *Gaijin Bochi* (foreign cemetery), where many foreign experts who contributed to Japan's modernization during the Meiji era are buried. Among them are Edoardo Chiossone, who designed the first Japanese banknotes, and Henry Spencer Palmer, who helped expand Yokohama's harbor. In spring, Aoyama Cemetery transforms into a stunning cherry blossom viewing spot, attracting visitors for *hanami* (flower viewing). The paths lined with cherry trees create a beautiful tunnel of blossoms. While picnicking within the cemetery is generally discouraged to maintain respect for the deceased, the vibrant atmosphere during cherry blossom season is a unique experience. One of the cemetery's most famous graves is that of Hachikō, the loyal Akita dog who waited for his owner at Shibuya Station for nine years after his death. Hachikō is buried alongside his owner, Professor Hidesaburō Ueno.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for a spectacular display, but be mindful of crowds.
- Pay respects to Hachikō's grave, located near his owner Professor Hidesaburō Ueno's tomb.
- Explore the *Gaijin Bochi* (foreign section) to learn about foreign contributors to Japan's modernization.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery is large and requires a fair amount of walking.
- Remember that this is a cemetery, so be respectful of the surroundings and those who are mourning.
A brief summary to Aoyama Cemetery
- 2 Chome-32-2 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, 2 Chome Minamiaoyama, Tokyo, 107-0062, JP
- +813-3401-3652
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
Aoyama Cemetery is accessible via several train and subway stations. The closest stations are Gaienmae Station (Ginza Line, 7-minute walk), Nogizaka Station (Chiyoda Line, 10-minute walk), and Aoyama-itchome Station (Hanzomon, Ginza, and Oedo Lines, 9-minute walk). From any of these stations, follow the signs and walk to the cemetery entrance. Subway fares typically range from ¥180-¥210 depending on the distance traveled.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. From major hubs like Shibuya or Roppongi, a taxi ride to Aoyama Cemetery will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥3,100-¥3,700 for a short trip within Minato City. Note that fares increase by 20% from 10 PM to 5 AM.
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Chii Bus
The Minato City Community Bus, also known as 'Chii Bus', has a route that stops near Aoyama Cemetery. The fare is a flat ¥100 per ride for everyone of elementary school age or older. A one-day pass costs ¥500 and allows unlimited rides on the Chii Bus and Odaiba Rainbow Bus.
