Haunted Places & Ghost Tours in Setagaya, Japan
1. Tama Cemetery
Historic cemetery with over 240,000 graves dating back to the Edo period. Known for being one of the largest and most haunted cemeteries in Japan.
- Size: Tama Cemetery covers an area of 495,000 square meters.
- Historical Significance: Many notable Japanese figures are buried here, including the first President of Japan, Yukito Okata.
- Paranormal Activities: Several paranormal activities have been reported, such as apparitions and unexplained sounds.
2. Hikawa Shrine
An ancient shrine believed to be haunted by the spirit of a samurai who lost his life in a duel here. Visitors often report feeling cold spots and hearing unexplained noises.
- Spiritual Presence: The spirit of the samurai is said to be still wandering within the shrine grounds.
- Historical Backdrop: The shrine dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest in Japan.
- Paranormal Experiences: Numerous paranormal experiences have been reported by visitors and locals alike.
3. Akabane Tengu Shrine
A shrine dedicated to the tengu, a legendary creature often associated with haunted folklore. The area around the shrine is believed to be haunted by these mythical beings.
- Mythological Significance: The tengu are popular figures in Japanese folklore and are often depicted as protective spirits.
- Haunted Aura: The area around the shrine is said to have a heavy, haunting atmosphere.
- Folklore and Legends: Many folktales and legends revolve around the tengu and their haunted shrines.
4. Setagaya Public Museum
A museum featuring a haunted house exhibit showcasing Japanese ghost folklore. The museum also offers ghost tours during specific seasons.
- Haunted House Exhibit: The exhibit showcases different aspects of Japanese ghost folklore, complete with props and narration.
- Ghost Tours: Ghost tours are available during specific seasons, exploring the area's haunted history.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can interact with props and learn about various ghost stories.
5. Setagaya Boroichi Market
A traditional market known for its haunted stalls selling ghost-themed goods. The market is held twice a year and offers a unique shopping experience.
- Haunted Goods: Stalls sell everything from traditional masks to ghostly dolls.
- Cultural Experience: Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture and learn about ghost folklore.
- Seasonal Event: The market is held twice a year during the spring and autumn seasons.
6. Tsurugidai Kofun
An ancient burial mound that some claim to be haunted by the spirit of its original owner. The site offers a unique look into Japan's past.
- Ancient Burial Mound: The Tsurugidai Kofun is one of the largest keyhole-shaped kofuns in Japan.
- Haunted History: Local legends speak of the spirit of its original owner haunting the site.
- Historical Significance: The kofun dates back to the late 6th century, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.
7. Sakura no Mori Park
A park known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and haunted stories. Visitors often report feeling uneasy or seeing apparitions within the park.
- Cherry Blossom Viewing: The park is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms during spring.
- Haunted History: Numerous ghost stories are associated with the park, adding a spooky atmosphere.
- Peaceful Retreat: Despite its haunted reputation, Sakura no Mori Park is also a popular spot for peace and relaxation.
8. Setagaya Art Museum
An art museum hosting ghost-themed exhibitions and events during certain seasons.
- Ghost-Themed Exhibits: Exhibits focus on various aspects of Japanese ghost folklore.
- Artistic Expression: Artists from around the world contribute to these exhibitions.
- Seasonal Events: Ghost-themed events are held during specific seasons, such as Halloween.
9. Yamatane Art Museum
An art museum showcasing works by the famous Japanese artist, Yumeji Takehisa, who had a strong interest in ghosts and spirituality.
- Ghost-Inspired Art: The museum houses a vast collection of the artist's work inspired by ghostly themes.
- Historical Perspective: Visitors can learn about the artist's life and his fascination with ghostly subjects.
- Artistic Immersion: The museum offers an immersive experience into the world of Yumeji Takehisa.
10. Setagaya Ghibli Museum
While not directly haunted, this museum offers a unique look into Japanese ghost folklore through its animated films.
- Animated Ghost Stories: The museum showcases various ghost stories brought to life through animation.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can interact with props and learn about the animation process.
- Inspiring Creativity: The museum serves as an inspiration for aspiring animators and artists.
11. Ayase Machiya Yadorigi
A traditional machiya (townhouse) offering ghost tours and paranormal experiences.
- Traditional Architecture: The machiya is a well-preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture.
- Paranormal Experiences: Visitors can experience ghostly activities within the house, such as spirit communication sessions.
- Haunted History: The machiya is said to be haunted by the spirits of former residents.
12. Ogikubo Boroichi Market
A market offering a variety of ghost-themed goods, as well as traditional items.
- Haunted Goods: Stalls sell everything from ghostly dolls to traditional masks.
- Cultural Experience: Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture and learn about ghost folklore.
- Seasonal Event: The market is held twice a year during the spring and autumn seasons.
13. Setagaya Literary Museum
A museum dedicated to Japanese literature, featuring ghost stories and other folklore.
- Literary Exhibits: Exhibits focus on various aspects of Japanese literature, including ghost stories.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can interact with displays and learn about different authors and their works.
- Cultural Perspective: The museum offers insight into Japanese literature and its role in shaping the country's culture.
14. Setagaya Boroichi Temple
A temple with a haunted history, said to be inhabited by spirits of former monks.
- Haunted History: The temple is said to be haunted by the spirits of former monks.
- Historical Significance: The temple dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest in Japan.
- Religious Experience: Despite its haunted reputation, the temple remains an active place of worship.
15. Setagaya Haunted Pub Crawl
A pub crawl that visits bars known for their haunted histories and ghost sightings.
- Haunted Bars: Visit several bars in Setagaya with a history of paranormal activity.
- Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about ghost folklore.
- Nightlife Experience: Enjoy a unique pub crawl experience unlike any other.