The Tokugawa Tomb in Tokyo
North of Ueno, just behind the National Museum of Tokyo, lies a large Japanese cemetery with a monument dedicated to the memory of Shogun Tokugawa
North of Ueno, just behind the National Museum of Tokyo, you'll find a sprawling Japanese cemetery housing a monument dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa, the legendary shogun immortalized in the film "The Last Samurai" starring Tom Cruise.
Unfortunately, during our last visit, this temple was closed for renovation, and we could only photograph the exterior.
Located just a 20-minute walk from the National Museum of Tokyo, we recommend visiting if you're not too tired (turn right when exiting, then right again).
Near the cemetery, continuing along the street to the right as you exit, you'll discover a small wooden temple, and as you venture into the adjacent side streets, you'll encounter traditional Japanese wooden houses dating from the 1940s and 1950s.
However, as these hold little historical significance, we suggest retracing your steps and taking the Metro toward Ueno to visit Sensoji Temple.
Frequently asked questions
The tomb of Shogun Tokugawa is situated north of the Ueno district, just behind the National Museum of Tokyo. It's located approximately a 20-minute walk from the museum, within a large Japanese cemetery.
From the exit of the National Museum of Tokyo, turn right, then right again. The cemetery and Tokugawa memorial are accessible on foot in approximately 20 minutes. Ueno subway station is also nearby.
The site is generally open to the public. In 2009, it was closed for renovation, but we recommend checking current opening hours and access conditions before your visit, as this information may have changed.
Near the cemetery, you can discover a small wooden temple and traditional Japanese houses from the 1940s and 1950s. The Ueno district, with Sensoji Temple, is also easily accessible by subway from this area.
Tokugawa Ieyasu was a powerful shogun who unified Japon in the early 17th century and established the Tokugawa shogunate, whose capital was Edo, present-day Tokyo. His memorial is an important historical landmark in the city.
