A Guide to the Tranquil Charms of the Japanese Cemetery Park in Singapore
I’ve always wondered why there is a Japanese cemetery in Singapore and who could be buried there. There aren’t a lot of Japanese people living here, after all.
I guess you just have to visit now to find out why!
If you’re a tourist seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience or a local curious about our city’s diverse history, the Japanese Cemetery Park has stories to tell. Let me guide you through navigating this historical site, sharing tips and insights that will enrich your visit.
History & Background
Japanese Cemetery Park, the largest Japanese cemetery in Southeast Asia, is the final resting place for many early Japanese settlers, including merchants and traders who arrived in Singapore in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The cemetery also contains the graves of Japanese soldiers who died during World War II, although this section is relatively small compared to the rest of the park. There’s also a monument dedicated to comfort women who suffered during the war.
Things to Know
Address: 825B Chuan Hoe Avenue
Contact: +65 6469 6488, [email protected]
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Fees: Free entry
Accessibility: PWD-friendly pathways, no ramps or elevators
Amenities: Seating area, prayer hall, information signage, public restrooms, gardens and landscaping
Pet-friendly? No
Rules and Restrictions
✖ No littering
✖ No vandalism
✖ No smoking or open flames
✖ No after-hour visits
✖ No pets
✖ No loud music or voices
How to Get to the Japanese Cemetery Park
Closest MRT: Take the North East Line to Kovan MRT Station (NE13). From Kovan, it’s about a 10-minute taxi ride to the cemetery.
Closest bus station: Catch a bus from the Kovan Bus Interchange, located just outside the MRT station. Board bus 136 or 119 and alight at the bus stop opposite the Singapore Crocodile Farm along Yio Chu Kang Road. From there, it’s a short walk to the cemetery entrance.
By car: There are limited on-site and street parking options, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends. Nearby public car parks along Hougang Avenue 1, the Kovan area, and Heartland Mall are also available.
What to See, Do, and Expect
Explore the historical graves
— Media from palmerdebra
Many graves here belong to early Japanese settlers—traders and merchants who came to Singapore in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s fascinating to see the inscriptions on the tombstones, which reflect the diverse backgrounds and contributions of these individuals.
Among the graves are those of prominent figures, such as Iso Arakaki, a well-known Japanese philanthropist, and Tsurukichi Itani, a dedicated physician who served the community during his time in Singapore.
Visit the memorials
— Media from josef1064
One of the most poignant memorials is dedicated to the Comfort Women, a group of women who endured unimaginable hardships during World War II. As I stood before the memorial, I couldn’t help but think about the stories of resilience and strength behind it.
These women, many of whom were taken from their homes and forced into servitude, suffered greatly. The memorial serves as a sombre reminder of their plight and the historical injustices they faced.
Reflect or pray in the Prayer Hall
— Media from varooch
The Prayer Hall, with its simple yet elegant design, invites visitors to pause and reflect amidst the surrounding history and nature. I found a quiet corner to sit in and let my thoughts settle, appreciating the peacefulness that the hall offers.
The traditional Japanese architectural elements, like the wooden beams and tatami mats, create a calming environment that encourages introspection. I noticed the beautiful altar adorned with flowers and offerings left by previous visitors.
Admire the cherry blossoms (between March and April)
— Media from autumnrhapsodyy
The cherry blossoms, a symbol of beauty and the fleeting nature of life, transform the park into a breathtaking scene reminiscent of a traditional Japanese garden. You’ll see them right away forming an arc at the main entrance, typically between March and April.
It’s amazing how these trees, with their ephemeral beauty, manage to evoke such a strong sense of peace and introspection. They are primarily located along the main pathways, creating picturesque avenues that visitors can walk through.