Kaneiji Temple

Kaneiji Temple has an unassuming feature that is perhaps more intriguing than its five-story pagoda. Located in the cemetery area of the temple is an engraved stone serving as a memorial to the insects that have died for science. In 1821, Sessai Matsuyama was the last face many grasshoppers, crickets, and flies saw before they were killed in the name of science. Matsuyama was working on a massive anatomical study of insects – a text that was monumental in the world’s understanding of the anatomy of bugs. Despite the overwhelming success of his studies, Matsuyama felt awful for killing so many living creatures. He ordered the stone to be etched in commemoration of the dead insects. If you’ve ever owned a fly swatter or one of those ever-so-satisfying mosquito zappers, better come pay your respects here.