A Tranquil Space for Eternal Rest: The New Cemetery in Toride City, Japan
In Toride City, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, a new cemetery offering eternal peace is set to open on September 12, 2026. This initiative by Eitai Corporation, a leader in providing perpetual care burial sites across Japan, introduces innovative solutions for grave management amid the growing concerns of an aging population and dwindling successors.
Background of Tokokuj Temple
The new burial site, named "Meikōzan Tokokuj" (明香山 東谷寺), holds a rich history that dates back to the establishment of a temple to ward off evil spirits in 1561. With a foundation rooted in protecting memories, the temple has merged with its neighboring entity and stands as a serene resting place for the community.
In recent years, due to declining birth rates and an increase in nuclear families, many individuals face the dilemma of lacking successors to oversee their graves or live far away from their burial sites. This issue has led to a significant rise in requests for re-burials, notably in Ibaraki Prefecture, where cases doubled from 2,032 in FY2020 to 4,082 anticipated in FY2024.
Comforting Solutions for Grave Management
To counter these challenges, the opening of the new burial site at Tokokuj Temple provides a solution that does not require successors. The temple commits to offering perpetual care, relieving families of the burden of grave upkeep. This initiative ensures that loved ones can rest in peace with their memories honored through constant care from the temple itself.
Moreover, with many considering funeral plans as part of their life management, the process of preparing one's own burial site in advance has gained popularity. By introducing these new burial options, the Tokokuj Temple aims to provide residents of Toride City and surrounding areas with a dependable resting place for the future.
Features of the New Cemetery at Tokokuj Temple
- - Accessible Location: Conveniently situated just 10 minutes from Fujishiro Station and 12 minutes from Toride Station, the cemetery is easily accessible by car, and a bus route accommodates visitors without private vehicles. The ample parking provision ensures that visitors, including the elderly, can visit the site comfortably.
- - Worry-Free Care and Maintenance: The eco-friendly perpetual burial plots come with no annual maintenance fees and don’t require a successor. The temple staff will handle all aspects of care and maintenance, allowing families to focus on remembrance. Dedicated personnel will help families from the initial visit through to the laid-down resting phase and conduct upkeep after burial at no additional cost.
- - Serene Environment for Reflection: The cemetery features large statues that oversee the area, creating a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The accessible design, including wide pathways and barrier-free access, ensures everyone can visit without concern. Nestled within a tranquil residential and natural setting, the site promotes a calm space for reflection.
Free Information Session and Site Visits
Tokokuj Temple welcomes those interested in learning more to arrange free on-site visits. Each group will receive personalized attention from dedicated staff, allowing them to ask questions and discuss their concerns about burial and memorial needs. Additionally, informative brochures can be requested free of charge, providing families with ample materials for consideration.
For consultations regarding graves, requests for information packets, or to schedule visits, interested parties are encouraged to contact Eitai Corporation via their official site or through their free-call service.
Free Call: 0120-19-9402
Official Website: Eitai Corporation
About Tokokuj Temple
Temple Name: Meikōzan Tokokuj (明香山 東谷寺)
Head Priest: Hidenari Tsukagoshi
Location: 5458 Kobunma, Toride City, Ibaraki Prefecture, 302-0001
Access:
- - By Car: About 10 minutes from Fujishiro Station and 12 minutes from Toride Station.
- - By Bus: Take the bus from Toride Station East Exit, line 2, to Nakatsuma stop, then walk for about 5 minutes.
Company Overview
Company Name: Eitai Corporation (株式会社エータイ)
Location: 3F Crest Takehashi Building, 3-21 Kanda Nishikicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 101-0054
Representative: Ganki Kabayama
Business Area: Cemetery consulting services, including planning and establishing perpetual care burial sites, and sales for usage.
Company Website: Eitai Corporation