662 Kayoi, Nagato, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
The Omijima Whale Tomb, located on the eastern edge of Omijima Island near the Kayoi Port, is a poignant monument within the grounds of Koganj Temple's Jingetsuan hermitage. Erected in 1692 by the Kayoiura whaling group, this stone tower commemorates the whales, particularly the sorrow felt for parent whales losing their calves. Villagers honored the captured whales by giving them posthumous Buddhist names and holding memorial services. Today, visitors can reflect on the history of whaling in the area and the respect shown to these marine creatures. The tomb is accessible by bus from Nagato-shi Station, a 30-minute ride to the 'Kayoi Gyokyo-mae' stop. It's a nationally designated historic site offering a glimpse into the Edo period.
Era: Edo Period; Cultural Property: Nationally Designated Historic Site