Sugamo Prison Memorial Tokyo
A solemn stone marker in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park, commemorating the 59 WWII war criminals executed at the former Sugamo Prison.
Highlights
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Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Sugamo Prison Memorial Tokyo
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn stone marker in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park, commemorating the 59 WWII war criminals executed at the former Sugamo Prison.
"Worth the trip due to the Sugamo Prisons place in history, though not much to see."
📍 Find the Stone Marker
The memorial is a stone marker, slightly obscured by trees in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park. :world_map:
📜 Understand the History
Research the 7 executed war criminals and the prison's significance beforehand. 📚
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
3.9 · 139 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
War Criminals' Gallows Marker
Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park
A stone monument marking the site where 59 WWII war criminals were hanged.
Historical Context of Sugamo Prison
Former site of Sugamo Prison (now Sunshine 60)
Reflect on the prison's role in housing and executing war criminals after WWII.
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Planning Your Visit
Historical Significance
Location and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📍 Find the Stone Marker
The memorial is a stone marker, slightly obscured by trees in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park. :world_map:
📜 Understand the History
Research the 7 executed war criminals and the prison's significance beforehand. 📚
🚶♂️ Combine with Park Visit
Enjoy the surrounding Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park for a more complete experience. 🏞️
🗣️ Limited Information Onsite
There are no English or Japanese information boards at the marker itself. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Find the Stone Marker
The memorial is a stone marker, slightly obscured by trees in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park. :world_map:
📜 Understand the History
Research the 7 executed war criminals and the prison's significance beforehand. 📚
🚶♂️ Combine with Park Visit
Enjoy the surrounding Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park for a more complete experience. 🏞️
🗣️ Limited Information Onsite
There are no English or Japanese information boards at the marker itself. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors acknowledge the Sugamo Prison Memorial's historical importance as a site where war criminals were executed. While it's a solemn landmark, many note the lack of information on-site and its understated nature, suggesting prior research enhances the experience.
"Important landmark due to its historical importance. This stone peace marker is tucked away on the side of the Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park.
The seven Sugamo prisoners found guilty and executed for war crimes at the Tokyo War Crimes trial are; Tojo Hideki, Doihara Kenji, Hirota Kouki, Itagaki Seishirou, Kimora Heitarou, Muto Akira, and Matsui Iwane. All were executed on Dec 23, 1948. Another sixteen prisoners were found guilty and sentenced from a few years to life in prison. Two others died during the trial of natural causes. One, Oukawa Shūmei was considered insane and charges were dropped.
Although it’s not much to see it’s worth the trip due to the Sugamo Prisons place in history."
Wolf Mure
"Slightly obscured from view with trees, this stone monument marks the gallows where 59 WWII war criminals were hanged. They were prisoners of Sugamo Prison, which is where Sunshine 60 now stands. It’s also worth noting that this area was once called West Sugamo, but was renamed East Ikebukuro post-war. Video and more details on Tokyo Past 3."
Mizhelle A
"A marker shows where the prison stood but there is no information board in either English nor Japanese."
James F
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial is located in Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park. The nearest stations are Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line) and Ikebukuro Station (JR, Tokyo Metro, Tobu, Seibu lines). From Ikebukuro Station, it's about a 10-15 minute walk.
Yes, it is very accessible. Higashi-Ikebukuro Station is directly connected to the park area, and Ikebukuro Station, a major hub, is also within walking distance.
Taking the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line to Higashi-Ikebukuro Station is a convenient option. Alternatively, JR and other subway lines to Ikebukuro Station will get you close.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sugamo Prison Memorial is a historical marker located in a public park, so there are no tickets or entry fees required. It's free to visit.
As it's an outdoor memorial in a park, it is accessible during park hours, which are generally from dawn until dusk.
No, Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park is a public space and does not have an entrance fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You will find a stone monument marking the site where 59 WWII war criminals were executed. It's a solemn historical marker rather than a museum.
Unfortunately, reviews indicate there are no information boards in either English or Japanese at the marker itself, so prior research is recommended.
A visit to the memorial itself is brief, likely only a few minutes. However, you can extend your visit by exploring Higashi Ikebukuro Central Park.
The memorial is a historical site with a somber past. While children can visit, parents may want to explain the historical context appropriately.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the memorial and in the surrounding park. However, it's a place of historical significance, so respectful photography is advised.
The stone marker is the primary subject. Consider capturing it within the context of the park setting to convey its location.
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