What to know
Zuihoden (瑞鳳殿, Zuihōden) is the mausoleum of Date Masamune, one of the most powerful feudal lords of the Edo Period (1603–1868). Masamune was the first in a long line of Date lords to rule over Sendai from Aoba Castle. His son and grandson, Date Tadamune and Date Tsunamune, are entombed in nearby mausoleums, while other descendants are laid to rest in less elaborate graves and tombs.
Zuihoden was designed in the ornate style of the Momoyama Period. It features intricate woodwork and a rich variety of vivid colors. Masamune's son and grandson are entombed in smaller mausoleums designed in the same style.
Massive cedar trees surround the paths in the area and are meant to symbolize the long history of the Date clan. A museum beside the Zuihoden main building shows some of the personal artifacts of the Date family and even some specimens of their bones and hair.
Zuihoden can be reached in about 15 minutes from Sendai Station by the Loople Sendai bus. Get off at bus stop #4. The bus fare is 260 yen per ride or 630 yen for a 1-day pass.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 16:50 (until 16:20 in December and January)
- Closed
- December 31 (the museum is also closed on January 1)
- Admission
- 570 yen (~$3.65) (460 yen (~$2.94) for Loople 1-day pass holders)
- English name
- Zuihoden Mausoleum
- Original name
- Zuihoden Mausoleum
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.