#Japan #Higashimurayama #Tokuzoji #Eternal Rest #Tree Burial

Embracing Tradition and Innovation at Tokuzoji Temple

On April 29, 2025, Tokuzoji Temple, located in the beautiful Higashimurayama city of Tokyo, will unveil a new era of memorial services with the introduction of eternal graves and tree burials. Despite its urban setting, Tokuzoji is steeped in history, having been nurtured over 400 years and recognized for its cultural significance. The temple is not just a place of worship, but a historic landmark that serves as a guardian of local memories.

A Historic Temple with a Modern Approach

Tokuzoji Temple, or Fukujusan Tokuzoji, is a venerable institution that predates many modern structures, showcasing cultural artifacts from its rich history. The temple's position is historically significant due to findings that trace back long before its founding, indicating that the area has been important for centuries. While honoring these traditions, Tokuzoji acknowledges the evolving nature of society and the way in which people memorialize their loved ones.

As traditional family structures break down with the increasing prevalence of nuclear families and single-member households, there has been a pressing need for new approaches to memorializing the departed. Tokuzoji's eternal graves and tree burials are tailored to address these changes, providing comforting solutions for contemporary concerns like the abandonment of graves, which has become a societal issue.

Flexible and Diverse Options for Memorialization

The eternal graves and tree burials offered by Tokuzoji Temple are designed with the modern customer's needs in mind. With multiple plans available, families and individuals can select the best option suited to their preferences:

1. Shared Graves: Starting from ¥110,000, this option allows individuals to rest alongside others, ideal for those seeking to keep costs manageable.
2. Individual Graves: Priced at ¥770,000, these graves are for families wishing for a personalized plot to cherish their collective memories for generations.
3. Tree Burials: At ¥198,000, this unique offering allows individuals to be memorialized in a naturally vibrant urban environment, differentiating itself from traditional tree burials by employing stone memorial markers, ensuring the resting place remains identifiable.

No annual management fees are required for any of these plans. After contracting, there are no ongoing maintenance costs as the temple will take care of memorial services permanently.

Addressing Modern Concerns

Tokuzoji Temple's new offerings address several contemporary issues:

• - Lack of Heirs: For individuals concerned about future memorialization without descendants.
• - Simplicity in Management: Those who prefer minimal hassle in managing burial arrangements.
• - Flexible Options: Individuals looking for non-traditional memorial methods devoid of strict religious affiliations.
• - Pre-planning for Loved Ones: Those wanting to alleviate future burdens on their children.

Accessibility and Consultations

Conveniently located near Higashimurayama Station, the temple ensures easy access for families visiting their loved ones, making it a suitable choice for day trips. From April 29, 2025, prospective customers can start reserving their spots. Additionally, free individual consultation sessions will be available, allowing visitors to discuss any concerns they may have about memorialization.

For those considering visiting, early reservations are encouraged to facilitate a smooth experience, as consultations are provided one group at a time.

About Tokuzoji Temple

As a historic temple belonging to the Rinzai school of Buddhism, Tokuzoji plays a crucial role in the community. Founded around the Genna era (1615-1623), the temple features significant cultural assets that narrate its storied past, including the famous Kyozo tablet and treasures from the Kamakura period.

Through sustainable memorial solutions, Tokuzoji Temple embodies a blend of history and innovation, catering uniquely to the needs of today's society without losing sight of traditional values.

About Eitai Co., Ltd.

Founded to tackle the challenges concerning religious institutions and the maintenance of family graves, Eitai Co., Ltd. represents a bridge between temples and modern memorial needs. They currently oversee 86 temples in the metropolitan area, providing over 30,000 memorial services. Eitai strives to continue offering solutions to societal dilemmas surrounding memorial practices, ensuring traditions are honored while embracing change.