#Japan #Osaka #Gendai Butsudan #Modern Altars #Funeral Altars

Introduction

In a move towards modernizing the traditional practice of honoring the deceased, Gendai Butsudan, based in Osaka, Japan, has unveiled the rankings of popular funeral altars for 2025. As housing sizes shrink, especially in urban areas where homes under 30 square meters are becoming more common, the appeal for compact altars that fit seamlessly into smaller living spaces has soared.

Ranking Overview

The popularity of these compact altars reflects a growing demand for designs that harmoniously blend into home interiors while still allowing for meaningful remembrance rituals. Gendai Butsudan's surveys indicate that users are prioritizing space-saving features and aesthetic coherence with their surroundings.

Top Three Floor-standing Altar Rankings

1. Centorea
Made from exquisite Sapele wood with a striking ribbon grain, this altar features a dynamic single-panel door. Its unified design extends to the storage compartments, making it a stylish and adaptable choice for the next generation.
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2. Le Fran
Utilizing solid walnut wood with a textured back panel, Le Fran creates a sophisticated ambiance as soft shadows emerge under the light. The vertically-opening door ensures accessibility even in tight spaces.
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3. Tsurugi
Crafted from Yoshino cedar, this altar boasts a refined Japanese modern design with a unique surface texture. It incorporates fire-resistant glass in the storage area, merging functionality with elegant aesthetics.
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Customers appreciate the sleek design of Centorea, remarking on how it doesn't resemble a conventional altar and praising its stylish door operation.

Top Three Compact Altar Rankings

1. Hanazakura
Featuring a door reminiscent of a snow-viewing shoji screen, this altar casts a soft glow through the washi paper, subtly highlighting cherry blossom patterns. Its top door opens up while the bottom pushes in, making it efficient for limited spaces.
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2. Chocolat
This altar combines varying heights of walnut wood, creating a dynamic and visually appealing door design suitable even when closed. Its slim profile below 300mm depth minimizes placement challenges.
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3. Piccola
Smartly designed to accommodate altar accessories without needing to relocate them during door operation, this altar’s construction includes ample storage for essentials.
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Buyers of Hanazakura praise the airy design of the washi paper door, enhancing the functionality and adaptability of the altar in their homes.

Top Three Wall-mounted Altar Rankings

1. Rikyu
With a lattice door design that complements modern living, Rikyu maintains a solemn atmosphere and incorporates a foldable platform for an expansive worship area.
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2. Life
This ultra-slim altar makes the best use of limited room at just 185mm thick and fits in seamlessly.
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3. Togetsu
Inspired by Kyoto’s historical aesthetic, this 150mm thick altar offers ample internal space while retaining a sleek form.
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Customers love Rikyu for its beautifully illuminated space, which feels welcoming rather than confining and lets one worship without feeling closed off.

Top Three Open-style Altar Rankings

1. Crystal Stage Mini N
Composed of variations in bronze glass, this altar offers a modern charm that seamlessly fits any decor. It features solid oak legs that warm the overall design.
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2. Sincere
This minimalist altar functions like a photo frame, allowing for an intimate worship experience made with high craftsmanship specific to the Asahikawa area.
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3. Crystal Stage N
Slightly larger than its mini counterpart, this altar comfortably contains various offerings while maintaining transparency to integrate harmoniously into any space.
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The Crystal Stage Mini N ranks first, often chosen by customers who find its design irresistible, showcasing the versatility to accommodate a variety of sacred items.

Conclusion

The insights garnered from this ranking demonstrate the modern preferences when it comes to choosing altars—including the prioritization of space efficiency, harmony with interior décor, and a non-intrusive appearance. These trends reflect the contemporary lifestyle shifts towards compact living and diverse expressions of daily homage.

Survey Overview

• - Collection Period: January 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
• - Data Source: Orders from Gendai Butsudan retail stores and partner outlets

(Note: Rankings were compiled using sales data from all participating locations, independently created by the promotional team.)

About Gendai Butsudan

Gendai Butsudan specializes in crafting modern altars designed to fit seamlessly into living spaces. They are involved in all aspects of altar production from concept to sale, continually innovating to create meaningful spaces for remembrance. With 16 direct stores and around 100 outlets nationwide, Gendai Butsudan is committed to sharing contemporary devotional practices across generations.

Company Profile

• - Company Name: Gendai Butsudan Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Hideyuki Iii
• - Established: August 2024 (Inheriting altar division from Yagi Ken Co., Ltd. on October 1, 2024)
• - Business Scope: Planning, development, and retail/wholesale of altars and altar accessories
• - Capital: 1 million Yen
• - Employee Count: 114
• - Headquarters: 2-7-37 Higashimazato, Higashinari Ward, Osaka, 537-0011
• - Website: Gendai Butsudan

Closing Note

As traditional practices evolve, Gendai Butsudan remains at the forefront, combining heritage with modern living to provide altars that reflect the peace and respect we hold for our loved ones.