Exploring the Metaverse Cemetery 'Kaze no Rei'
In recent years, many individuals have found it increasingly challenging to visit their family graves, especially during the Obon season, a time when many families traditionally pay their respects to deceased loved ones. Population aging and urban migration have made it difficult for people to maintain these connections physically. Recognizing this shift in societal norms, HIKKY, a leader in XR technology, has partnered with Alpha Club Musashino to create the 'Kaze no Rei' Metaverse cemetery, providing a new way for families to memorialize their loved ones online.
The 'Kaze no Rei' will debut its NFT plots for sale on August 13, 2026. This innovative digital cemetery will allow families to create customized memorials in the Metaverse, giving them the freedom to commemorate their loved ones whenever and wherever they like. The service will officially launch in September 2024, and will also feature a physical cemetery space available for public access starting February 2026.
New Features of 'Kaze no Rei'
The cemetery aims to preserve traditional commemorative practices while integrating modern technology. Several new functionalities have been announced alongside the NFT plot sales:
NFT Plot Sales
Users can purchase plots to create personalized memorials, allowing them to manage their commemorative spaces as NFTs. The price for each plot is set at 100,000 yen, which includes a free gravestone design option.
Premium Gravestones
For those looking for a more extravagant memorial, there is an option to upgrade to a premium gravestone for an additional 500 yen.
Growth of Gravestones
Gravestones will evolve over time, reflecting the accumulation of offerings and visits, allowing users to visualize their acts of remembrance.
Offering History
Families can purchase flowers, incense, and other offerings for their loved ones, with a record kept of all offerings made, enabling shared commemoration experiences.
Family Messaging
The platform allows family members to leave messages for each other as well as for the deceased through a messaging feature in their virtual rooms.
Inheritance Functionality
Users can designate heirs beforehand, ensuring that their NFT cemetery plots can be seamlessly transferred to family members.
Subscription Service
For users wishing to store additional memories, a subscription service offers expanded storage for photos and videos at a monthly fee of 500 yen.
Free Access to 'Kaze no Ma'
A unique feature called 'Kaze no Ma' will provide virtual spaces for funerals, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate in real-time live streams and share offerings from afar. This space will be available for free, allowing for a new form of remote participation in memorial services.
Aim of 'Kaze no Rei'
The core mission of 'Kaze no Rei' is to leverage digital advancements to sustain and evolve Japan's rich cultural heritage of respecting and remembering those who have passed. It is not intended to replace traditional physical cemeteries but creates an inclusive digital alternative that respects all individuals and families, irrespective of their circumstances.
About HIKKY and Alpha Club Musashino
HIKKY is at the forefront of XR technology, melding culture with cutting-edge means since its inception in 2018. They host major Metaverse events and aim to create captivating experiences through the integration of virtual and real worlds.
On the other hand, Alpha Club Musashino has long been a significant player in Japan's funeral and wedding sectors, providing a holistic approach to ceremonial traditions. Their collaborative efforts in the Metaverse signify a profound commitment to innovation in commemorative practices.
For more information about 'Kaze no Rei' and to explore its unique offerings, you can visit the official website
here.