#Japan #Tokyo #Cashless Payments #Terapay #Buddhist Temples

Introduction to Terapay®

In a groundbreaking development within the realm of financial services, Japan has officially launched Terapay®, a payment processing solution specifically designed for Buddhist temples and religious institutions. Initiated by 366, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, this innovative service automates the collection of regular payments such as cemetery management and maintenance fees from temple patrons and believers. By embracing cashless transactions, Terapay® addresses a growing demand among temple congregations, particularly amid the rising calls for greater flexibility and convenience in payment methods.

Why Terapay® Was Created

A survey conducted by the All Japan Buddhist Association revealed that over 56% of temple congregants prefer to pay for cemetery upkeep and maintenance fees via cashless methods, underscoring the urgent requirement for a streamlined payment option. As many elderly patrons face difficulties visiting temples solely for the purpose of making payments, the addition of Terapay® will help alleviate that challenge. Furthermore, temples traditionally relied on cash transactions, placing a significant administrative burden on priests and monks, who often found themselves overwhelmed by paperwork rather than focusing on their core spiritual duties. Aiming to resolve these issues, 366 embarked on the development of this niche payment service.

Key Features of Terapay®

1. Flexible Payment Solutions

With Terapay®, temple patrons can choose between credit card payments (VISA/MasterCard) and bank account transfers, ensuring they can utilize a method that best suits their lifestyle. This adaptability allows temples to meet diverse needs with a single system, making it easier for both congregants and practitioners to manage transactions. Inputting payment details is as easy as scanning a QR code and entering the required information via smartphone, eliminating cumbersome processes for users.

2. Dramatically Reduced Administrative Burden

Historically, temple priests needed to verify past payment records and check for any outstanding fees, which often consumed considerable time and effort. The implementation of Terapay® automates these tedious tasks, allowing management to monitor payment statuses in real time via a management dashboard. This efficiency not only streamlines operations but also helps restore balance to the priests’ work-life equations.

3. Regaining Time to Share Buddha’s Teachings

By freeing temple officials from the complexities of cash collection, Terapay® enables them to invest more time into building deeper connections with each patron. This is particularly significant given that many patrons have expressed a desire to discuss their thoughts and feelings more openly with the priests, rather than feeling rushed or dismissed during brief visits.

Who Can Utilize Terapay®

In addition to Buddhist temples, Terapay® is open for use by shrines, other religious organizations, and incorporated entities, provided they pass a designated screening process set by 366.

Service Demonstration

For a comprehensive overview of the Terapay® service, viewers can check out this introduction video.

Upcoming Online Seminar

366 also invites clergy and temple staff to participate in an upcoming online seminar focused on Terapay®, scheduled for Monday, July 28, 2025, from 14:00 to 15:00, featuring 366's CNO Vice President, Riku Masazawa, as the speaker. For additional details, check out the following link: Terapay® Seminar.

Conclusion

As Japan’s first payment processing service designed exclusively for religious institutions, Terapay® is poised to revolutionize the way Buddhist temples operate, allowing them to transition into the modern era of cashless services while regaining focus on what truly matters—their spiritual missions and connections with their communities.

Company Background

Company Name: 366 Co., Ltd.
Headquarters: 3-23-10 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Teruo Ito
Business Focus: Development of tree burials, digital transformation consulting for temples
Registration Number for Credit Card Processing: Kanto (Ku) No. 195