“Shakespeare of Japan” they called him. Let’s explore the story behind the tomb of Chikamatsu Monzaemon. This is the tomb of Chikamatsu Monzaemon. He was a famous playwright. He elevated the theatrical art of Joruri. Joruri is Japanese puppet theater.
In Osaka during the 17th century Joruri flourished. Many famous playwrights emerged. Chikamatsu Monzaemon was one of them. He teamed up with Takemoto Gidayu. Together they transformed Joruri. They made it a dramatic art form. It used to focus only on music.
Chikamatsu Monzaemon was born in 1653. He died in 1724 at the age of 72. He is known for his works in Ningyo Joruri. Ningyo Joruri is a type of puppet theater. Some of his famous plays are “The Love Suicides at Sonezaki” and “The Love Suicides at Amijima”.
Initially Chikamatsu Monzaemon’s tomb was located at Homyoji Temple in Tanimachi. Later the temple moved. The tomb was left behind. For a while it was neglected. In 1966 Osaka designated it as a historic site. In 1980 the city restored the tomb. This was done with help from local preservation groups.
The tomb is made of green stone. It bears the posthumous names of Chikamatsu and his wife. The tomb of Chikamatsu Monzaemon stands as a testament to his legacy. Every year a memorial service honors Chikamatsu Monzaemon. It takes place near his death anniversary on November 22. Locals perform it since 1936. During the service people pour water on his tomb. This is a traditional custom. People can come and witness the ceremony.