Is It Morbid To Be Fascinated By Cemetery?

I recently walked inside a cemetery in Copenhagen and ate the horrid Scandinavian licorice in front of Hans Handerson’s grave. I was only half-listening to Lisa, our beautiful tour guide when she said that people actually go on dates and have parties there. Apparently, It’s a part of the urban culture in Copenhagen.

I get it though. It was a beautiful spot right in the middle of the city. I’d do the same if I lived in Copenhagen.

But hearing this the North Carolina based music professor turned to me with a horror look on his face and whispered, “Why would anyone do that?!!“

Yanaka Cemetery

His comment brought me right back to Yakana, Tokyo. To that day, when I walked alone in the Sakura blanketed cemetery. It was one of the most beautiful scenes I have experienced in my life. And I felt such powerful tranquillity standing on that ground. I had a similar zen feeling when I walked around Okunoin, the largest cemetery in Japan, years ago.

“Is it morbid to tell a stranger that I like walking around the cemetery?“, I contemplated.

Maybe it’s.

So I passed him a smile and a nod. I thought it would be easier than to explain to him that I have always been fascinated by the cemetery.

In Jakarta, I lived near a cemetery. Less than 5 minutes ride away. I passed it almost every day and I always looked inside (only during the daytime) to see the inside. It has always been a beautiful sight.

Here is hoping he will find the peace I find in a cemetery while still being alive. Maybe he should start with a Japanese cemetery. Well, if you ask me, I will say that everything needs to start with Japan.

Is cemetery a yes or no for you?