Tag Archives: Japanese Death and Burial Traditions

“Departures” by Yōjirō Takita

This Japanese film explores the taboo of working intimately with death

In “Departures,” Yōjirō Takita points out the absurdity of a culture that holds onto rich death rituals while condemning those who perform them. The emotional, sometimes downright hilarious, movie explores why we need death traditions and shines light on a practice that … Continue reading

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Japanese Funeral Superstitions Surrounding Death and the Number Four

Why this number sparks fear in Japan

Superstitions about numbers are nothing new. Look at Western culture’s obsession with the unlucky number thirteen to understand how pervasive number superstitions can be. Many people in Japan would think nothing of hopping into an elevator to get to the … Continue reading

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Honoring Ancestors in the Buddhist Culture: Japan’s Obon Festival

An annual Japanese Buddhist festival that honors the spirits of beloved family members who have died

Every year, Buddhists in Japan celebrate the custom of the Obon (or Bon) festival as a way to honor the spirits of beloved family members who have died. This Buddhist custom has influences from Confucianism as well. So how do … Continue reading

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