Yanaka Cemetery Tokyo
A vast, serene cemetery in Tokyo, famous for its cherry blossoms and historic graves, adjacent to a charming old-town shopping street.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sakura season magic
Yanaka Cemetery Tokyo
Best Time
Sakura season magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, serene cemetery in Tokyo, famous for its cherry blossoms and historic graves, adjacent to a charming old-town shopping street.
"A peaceful escape with stunning cherry blossoms and a nostalgic shopping street nearby."
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Just wander around the Yanaka district; it has an old-town ambiance.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Peak
Visit during sakura season for a truly magical, pink-hued experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sakura Spectacle
Throughout the cemetery
Thousands of cherry trees create a breathtaking pink canopy, transforming the cemetery into a magical wonderland.

Historic Gravesites
Various sections
Discover the final resting places of renowned artists, actors, and historical figures, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.

Peaceful Pagoda Views
Central area
A striking five-story pagoda stands amidst the greenery, offering a serene focal point and picturesque photo opportunities.

Yanaka Ginza Charm
Adjacent to the cemetery
Explore this charming, old-school shopping street for retro vibes, delicious street food, and unique souvenirs.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Just wander around the Yanaka district; it has an old-town ambiance.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Peak
Visit during sakura season for a truly magical, pink-hued experience.
🐱 Cat Spotting
Keep an eye out for the many friendly local cats that roam the cemetery grounds.
🛍️ Snack at Yanaka Ginza
Don't miss the adjacent Yanaka Ginza shopping street for delicious street food and souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Just wander around the Yanaka district; it has an old-town ambiance.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Peak
Visit during sakura season for a truly magical, pink-hued experience.
🐱 Cat Spotting
Keep an eye out for the many friendly local cats that roam the cemetery grounds.
🛍️ Snack at Yanaka Ginza
Don't miss the adjacent Yanaka Ginza shopping street for delicious street food and souvenirs.
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember it's a cemetery; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Yanaka Cemetery for its immense beauty, especially during cherry blossom season, and its peaceful, contemplative atmosphere. The adjacent Yanaka Ginza shopping street is a popular draw for its nostalgic charm and delicious street food. Some find the sheer size overwhelming, and it's important to remember its primary function as a resting place.
"Fascinating & interesting place to visit.
An easy walk and plenty of shade trees, but very few places to sit.
Watch out for the crows, they are prone to swoop, just like magpies!
Recommend a visit, even if your transiting from one location to the next."
Justan Knoff
"Normally most japanese cemeteries seem to be walled or fenced off inside some temple but this is just out there in the open and its massive in scale. Honestly feels like another random park/garden you would encounter in the city but its just a graveyard.
Extremely peaceful and quiet, I heard there used to be many cats around but I didnt get to see a single one which was a big letdown but tons of birds everywhere.
Of you happen to be in the Ueno area I would recommend walking through the park up towards the National Museum and then past the cemetery to hit Yanaka Ginza."
Ahara Darkspear
"One of the best streets in Tokyo to visit during Sakura Season (Cherry Blossoms) without any tourist! The cementery itself looks awesome also, beautiful scenery and has clean public restrooms. One of my best highlight in Tokyo regarding the Cherry Blossoms and the low quantity of people walking by."
Mauricio Lozano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yanaka Cemetery is easily accessible by public transport. The closest station is Nippori Station on the JR Yamanote Line, just a 5-minute walk away. You can also reach it via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Sendagi Station or the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Uguisudani Station, both a short walk from the cemetery.
Yes, Yanaka Cemetery is located in the Ueno area and is walkable from Ueno Park, making it a convenient addition to your itinerary if you're exploring that popular district.
The Yanaka area, including the cemetery and Yanaka Ginza shopping street, is best explored on foot. This allows you to soak in the old-town atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
Yes, you can use a taxi or ride-sharing service to get to Yanaka Cemetery. It's a good option if you're short on time or prefer direct transport.
Parking is generally limited and not recommended for visitors. It's best to rely on public transportation or walking to reach the cemetery and surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Yanaka Cemetery is a public space and does not require an entrance fee. You can visit and explore its grounds freely.
Yanaka Cemetery is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as it is a public cemetery. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
While open at all hours, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to appreciate the scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more peaceful experience.
As a place of rest, visitors are expected to be respectful. Avoid loud noises, littering, or disturbing any gravesites.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the location. Avoid intrusive photography of gravesites or any ongoing ceremonies.
📸 📸 Photography
The cherry blossom-lined paths during spring are incredibly photogenic. The five-story pagoda also offers a striking visual element. Look for interesting gravestone inscriptions and the serene, tree-lined avenues.
Absolutely! Yanaka Cemetery is renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, making it a prime location for photographers seeking beautiful sakura shots.
While you can photograph gravestones, it's crucial to do so respectfully. Avoid close-ups of names or dates if they seem too personal, and never disturb the graves.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive grounds and pagoda, while a telephoto can isolate details.
There are no explicit photography restrictions for general visitors, but always exercise discretion and respect. Avoid using flash photography directly on graves or disturbing the peace.
🍽️ 🛍️ Food & Dining
The adjacent Yanaka Ginza shopping street is the perfect place to find delicious street food, snacks, and small eateries. You can find everything from savory treats to sweet delights.
Yanaka Ginza offers a variety of traditional Japanese street foods, including grilled skewers, sweet pastries, local snacks, and refreshing drinks. It's a great spot for a casual and tasty meal.
No, there are no restaurants or food vendors within Yanaka Cemetery itself, as it is a place of rest. All dining options are located in the surrounding Yanaka district, particularly Yanaka Ginza.
Picnicking is generally not encouraged within the cemetery grounds out of respect for the deceased. It's better to enjoy your food in the nearby Yanaka Ginza or designated park areas.
Popular items include menchi-katsu (fried minced meat cutlet), senbei (rice crackers), and various sweet mochi. Exploring and trying different snacks is part of the fun!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more visually interesting aspects, like the pagoda and the cherry blossoms during season. You can also turn it into a 'treasure hunt' to find interesting gravestone designs or spot the resident cats. Just ensure everyone understands the importance of being quiet and respectful within the cemetery grounds.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Photographers
For photographers, the interplay of light and shadow among the trees, the striking pagoda, and the seasonal blooms provide endless creative possibilities. The adjacent Yanaka Ginza offers a vibrant contrast for street photography, capturing the essence of old Tokyo. Remember to be discreet with your camera to maintain the cemetery's serene ambiance.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Enthusiasts
Be prepared for larger crowds during peak bloom, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a slightly more tranquil experience. The combination of the solemnity of the cemetery and the ephemeral beauty of the blossoms creates a unique and poignant atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History and Nature
During spring, the cemetery transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of pink as thousands of cherry trees bloom, creating a magical tunnel of blossoms. This makes it an incredibly popular spot for photographers and visitors seeking to experience the iconic sakura season. Even outside of cherry blossom season, the cemetery offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, with its winding paths and quiet contemplation spaces.
Adjacent to the cemetery is Yanaka Ginza, a charming, old-fashioned shopping street that retains a nostalgic 'Shitamachi' (old downtown) atmosphere. This vibrant street is perfect for experiencing local life, sampling delicious street food, and picking up unique souvenirs, offering a delightful contrast to the solemnity of the cemetery.
Navigating Yanaka Cemetery: Tips for Visitors
Respect is paramount when visiting any cemetery. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a quiet demeanor, avoid loud conversations, and refrain from disturbing any gravesites or ongoing ceremonies. While photography is generally allowed, be mindful and discreet, especially when capturing images of gravestones.
For those interested in the historical figures buried here, some online resources can help identify notable graves. The cemetery is also a fantastic place for cat lovers, as many friendly stray cats can be found lounging among the tombstones.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit