I had in my mind a typical family gravesite: a number of names where he was one of a long line in the family, a number of stone slots, all covering ashes of various family members. Such graves belong to their families, and while others may visit, they should only do so as explicitly invited.
Japanese graves are family sites. Japanese graves are private.
In the worst case scenarios, I imagined the pressence of fans and their excessive “gifts” imposing on the family, or worse, the families of others whose departed loved ones rested nearby, constantly disturbed.
How was it then that the taxi driver included it on his “Buck-Tick tour,” brought us to a flower shop where bundles were already prepared, and readily dropped us off on a hill up the road from the old Sakurai home? Isn’t this invasive? I wondered. How is he so cavallier? If it were a nussiance, surely the families would ask the taxi company to stop. Graves are sacred enough that the law would be on the family’s side in the case of a claim…
It wasn’t what I expected.
An entire plot was given to his name. I had only before seen this with the oldest daimyos.
The spot was isolated, away from the city or other gravesites and surrounded by forest. Flowers grew by the edge of the wood, visited by pollinators. Birds sang in the trees.
There were only a couple of other plots nearby, more typical with the presence of numerous pillars and plaques. I recognized the older kanji of “櫻井” on some. But they were behind and out of view. We were directed instead to attend the large monument in front of us.
We added our own bouquet to the already packed bundles. Many were fresh. I noted a set of red roses begining to wilt. 🥀
The taxi driver did not leave to give us a moment alone. It may be their way to keep an eye on visitors while allowing them access, I thought.
Several times he interrupted us to point out the stone sign to the side. “BUCK-TICK” was visible in Latin letters, and in Japanese, it noted Sakurai’s importance to the band, Fujioka, Gumma, and Japan.
“His brother put this here,” the driver told us.
Historically, there have been a few split graves, where the ashes of someone both important and beloved by two or more houses were divided and buried at multiple graves. It struck me that Sakurai might be the same: a portion laid here, expressly for the fans, and another elsewhere, with his family proper.
Releived by a sense of permission, I was able to cry.
There has been a lot of unclear information out there regarding Sakurai’s grave, how it should be spoken about, and whether it can be visited. I wanted to share my experience to fill in those important gaps.
It stands alone. You will not disturb Sakurai’s family simply by visiting him.
It stands away from other families. You will not disturb strangers by visiting Sakurai.
It is still a grave. Be respectful, and know that, as a stranger, your actions will be watched. Take nothing but the air for your breath. Leave only your bouquets and prayers.
Rest in love and peace, Acchan, and may your grave never lack for flowers.
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