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Death Practices in Japan
A chain of islands along the eastern coast of Asia, Japan is one of the most densely populated countries on earth, with a population of about 126 million people living […]
A chain of islands along the eastern coast of Asia, Japan is one of the most densely populated countries on earth, with a population of about 126 million people living in an area slightly smaller than the state of California.
A country steeped in tradition, Japan boasts a remarkably homogeneous culture. Shared values, such as respect for authority, reverence for ancestors, and an extremely strong work ethic, are taught from an early age and strictly enforced through social norms.The majority of the country’s inhabitants are religious, and practice either Shinto or Buddhism or, in many cases, a combination of the two. Festivals that celebrate long-dead ancestors, such as the Buddhist Bon Festival, are common in both religions, and death rituals and funerals typically blend practices from both.
Below you will find a few examples of Japanese death practices from ancient to modern times.
- In Japan and Other Parts of East Asia, Living Funerals Are Gaining Popularity
- Buddhist Traditions and Cremation Dominate Japan’s Approach to the End of Life
- Unlike Much of Western Society, Many in Japan View Suicide as a Noble Act
- The Number Four Sparks Mortal Terror in the Hearts of Many Japanese
- Like Many Cultures Around the World, the Japanese Engage in Rituals to Keep Evil Spirits at Bay
- The Japanese Honor Dead Loved Ones With Gifts and Ceremony Each Year
