The Naito Family Grave in Kamakura

Attached to Komyo-ji Temple, this grave took me by surprise. It looks so different than any grave I have ever seen here in Japan. Although it is closed to the public, it is very easy to see in over the low fence surrounding it. A sign posted in front explains that the temple was the family temple for the Naitos, a feudal lord in Miyazaki Prefecture in the latter half of the Edo Period (1603-1868). They were powerful and whenever a family member died, elaborate funerals were held. The grave now seems to have fallen into neglect.