Was Emperor Meiji the last emperor to be buried in Kyoto? Yes, he was. We stand before a stone stele marking a significant site. It is the Tomb of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Also known as the Fushimi Momoyama Imperial Mausoleum.
Emperor Meiji passed away in the Imperial Palace on July 30, 1912. His final resting place is on Momoyama Hill in Fushimi, Kyoto. The tomb’s design reflects tradition. It has a square base with a rounded top. Each side of the square base measures 60 meters. The upper, round dome is 6.3 meters tall. Gravel covers the dome.
The Imperial Household Agency manages this area with great care. To the east lies the East Mound of the Fushimi Momoyama Ryo. This mound holds the remains of Empress Shoken, Emperor Meiji’s wife.
Emperor Meiji’s mausoleum was finished shortly after his funeral. This event marked a turning point. He was the last Japanese Emperor to be buried in Kyoto. His burial in September 1912 marked the end of an era.
The tomb’s construction took place during the Taisho era. Specifically, Taisho 2, which corresponds to 1913. The image from that time shows the newly built tomb. It portrays the final resting place of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Visiting hours are from 8:30 to 17:00 every day. Admission is free. Please note that parking is available. But it might not accommodate large vehicles. Credit cards are not accepted here.
The Tomb of Emperor Meiji stands as a testament to history. It is a place where respect and tradition intertwine. May we reflect on the past as we stand in this tranquil location.