The 8 Most Unique Cemeteries in the World (4 of 5)

6. Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Quick, what do you do when your beloved daughter dies but you’re having an impossible time finding a resting place worthy of her stature? You build one for her, duh! At least that’s what Philadelphia librarian John Jay Smith did when he was faced with such a dilemma. Running along the Schuylkill River, Lauren Hill Cemetery has since become steeped in American history, with more than 40 Civil War generals buried there. Perhaps the most iconic statue is that of a mother and twin babies, carved by a Polish sculptor who lost his children in a tragic drowning accident. 

7. Aoyama Cemetery, Tokyo, Japan

Located in the central part of the Minato District of Tokyo, Aoyama Cemetery gets especially busy during mid-April when Japan’s cherry blossoms come into full bloom. It’s a place where visitors can find peace and tranquility. And cats. Lots and lots of stray cats. It’s also the final resting place of Hachikō, the Faithful Dog. It’s a sad story, but also a testament to a dog’s loyalty. After his human passed away, Hachikō would wait at Shibuya Station everyday for nine years in hopes of seeing him again. Once it was Hachikō’s time to go, he was cremated and his ashes were buried next to his human.