Quick and easy things to do in Yokohama #3

The Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery is one of the few "quiet famous" spots of the city. Located in the Yamate/Motomachi area, it is a place filled with history and beauty.

In 1854, when Commodore Perry returned to Japan with a squadron of seven warships to negotiate opening up the country to international trade, a marine aboard one of the ships died. Perry requested a piece of land looking over the port to be used for burial of the marine and also as a cemetery for Americans; the cemetery was first established in 1859 soon after the opening of the Port of Yokohama. The current cemetery consists of 22 sections in an area of 18,500 meters.

On the weekends of the spring, summer and fall (from noon to 4:00 p.m.), the cemetery is opened up to the public for a small donation to help with the upkeep of the premises. Visitors will get a small pamphlet showing graves of interest, and they can also view the museum at the historic site.

On Open House days, visitors can follow a route to circle the grounds. The walking tour takes approximately 10 minutes, and you will be able to see the tombs of historical figures.

It's a lovely place to visit, with great views of the city and a somber blend of history and progress. When your visit is over, you can visit the many shops and restaurants in the nearby Motomachi area.

Address:
096, Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, 231-0862

Hours of operation: 12:00-16:00
Cemetery open to public weekends and holidays from Mar. to Dec. (closed in bad weather and during funeral ceremonies)

Closest railway stations:
Ishikawacho Station (JR Keihin Tohoku Negishi Line)
Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line)

Official Website:
http://www.yfgc-japan.com/