Zuihoden, the mausoleum of Date Masamune
Zuihoden Mausoleum is the site of entombment of one of the most powerful feudal lords of the Edo Period, Date Masamune. 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.
A Detail of Zuihoden Mausoleum
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