#Japan #Eitai #Tatebayashi #Onkaku

A Modern Alternative for Burial in Tatebayashi City

On August 13, 2025, a groundbreaking landmark will establish itself in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, as it welcomes the first-ever all-weather funeral hall, "Onkaku". Developed by Eitai Corporation, which has been pioneering eternal memorials and tree burials across Japan, this innovative structure seeks to alleviate anxieties surrounding traditional burial practices by offering a worry-free option with no annual management fees and no need for successors.

Addressing the Challenges of Modern Times

Tatebayashi City is renowned for its harsh winters and scorching summers, a climate pattern that might deter the practice of visiting burial sites. As anticipated, this year's heatwave will likely continue, reinforcing the need for a reliable and comfortable space for memorial services. The Onkaku hall provides a comprehensive indoor environment where visitors can pay their respects at any time, regardless of the weather.



The design of "Onkaku" merges contemporary aesthetics with serene functionality. Inside the hall, guests will be enveloped with soft lighting complemented by natural light filtering in from above, facilitating a peaceful atmosphere conducive to reflection and remembrance. The exterior incorporates natural larch wood, which enriches the building's visual appeal as it ages gracefully over time.

A Comfortable and Accessible Space

The indoor facility removes concerns of inclement weather, providing a spacious, barrier-free interior where guests can engage in quiet contemplation. The hall is designed with an emphasis on comfort and accessibility, ensuring that everyone can experience this sacred space at their own pace without the worry of weather disruptions.

Each family has the opportunity to use an individualized space for their memorial needs, where security is prioritized with personal locks for privacy. Moreover, a complete set of Buddhist offerings is included, simplifying the visit for families who wish to come without preparations. Visitors can adorn memorial stands with personal photographs and opt for additional features like Buddhist flowers.

Adapting to Changing Demographics

Amid changing societal dynamics such as an aging population and rising nuclear families, it is becoming increasingly challenging for individuals to manage and inherit traditional burial plots. The trend of transitioning to alternative forms of memorialization is escalating. According to a 2023 report by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of relocations of remains has hit a record high of over 160,000.

"Onkaku" addresses these evolving needs, presenting eternal memorial halls as a sustainable and supportive choice for contemporary families. By allowing temples to manage care for the eternally rested, families can maintain their connections to loved ones without the burden of upkeep.

Start of Reservations and Open House Events

From August 13, 2025, a dedicated application process for the eternal memorial hall "Onkaku" will be launched. Interested parties can also engage through the free individual consultation sessions being offered at the hall, encouraging discussions regarding memorial concerns without the pressure of large crowds.

Available Plans:

• - Individual Plan: Starting at 880,000 yen, allowing up to six family members to be interred together.
• - Shared Plan: Starting at 275,000 yen, wherein remains can be interred with others' ashes and then later consolidated after a designated time.

For additional details regarding plans and free information requests, interested citizens can visit the Eitai website.

About Daihouin

The Daihouin Temple was established in 1953 by Nichizuru Tanaka, focused on the Nichiren Buddhist community. In 2013, it relocated to its current site under the purview of its second abbot, further modernizing its memorial operations under the guidance of its third abbot, Myoukei Kusano. Through spiritual guidance and sacred activities, the temple remains committed to being a supportive community neighbor.

Company Background

Eitai Corporation, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, was founded with the intention to foster connections between individuals and cultivate social well-being by innovating memorial practices. The company went public on the Tokyo Growth Market in June 2025, currently managing over 100 partner temples and facilitating 30,000 memorial applications across the nation. As society continues to evolve, Eitai Corporation is determined to adapt and provide secure, future-oriented memorial solutions.

For further inquiries regarding partnerships with Eitai Corporation, visit Eitai Contact Page.