May 24, 2014 - 1 min read

Exploring the Kurodani Cemetery - 1

Surprising images from a unique Kyoto landmark

By Larry Knipfing

Community writer

There is something dignified about the way he sits and the look on his face

This statue took my breath away. I think I took over 50 pictures of it

The base of the same unique stones seen from the side

An old lantern statue against an old wooden fence

A corner of the cemetery looking down the hill

An old plastic bib protects the statue from the elements

A collection of stones in the shape of a pyramid

This stone is partially tipped over, perhaps due to the shaking of an earthquake

At the base of the pagoda, looking down on the cemetery and the city of Kyoto

Call me strange, but I really love cemeteries. Not the kind with straight rows and green grass. I like old cemeteries that spread out in every direction, with surprises in store around every turn. Kurodani Temple's cemetery in Kyoto is exactly like that. I spent three hours here, in pure bliss, on a beautiful morning in early May. During the three hours, I met a handful of people but basically had the place to myself almost the entire time. I chatted with a man from the neighborhood for 10 minutes or so as we sat together in front of the pagoda at the top of the long stairs that climb the hill. The view of the city spread out below us was magnificent. It was quiet and peaceful, and I was thankful to be there.

Photo Story 1 | Photo Story 2 | Quiet & Tranquil