The cultural traditions that influence family funerals in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, are largely rooted in Japan’s long history of Buddhist practices, particularly those associated with death and the 世田谷区 家族葬. Buddhist funerals are the predominant form in Setagaya, and these ceremonies follow a well-established set of rituals designed to ensure the peaceful transition of the deceased’s soul to the afterlife.
The funeral process typically begins with a wake, which is held to honor the deceased and allow friends and family to pay their respects. At this time, Buddhist priests often perform chanting and other rituals to invite the deceased’s spirit to stay with their loved ones before the final ceremony. In Setagaya, as in many parts of Japan, cremation is the most common method of handling the deceased, and it plays a significant role in funeral practices. After the cremation, family members engage in the “bone-picking” ritual, where they use chopsticks to delicately transfer the bones from the cremation urn to a burial urn, symbolizing their connection with the deceased and guiding them to the afterlife.
While Buddhism is the primary influence, there are also influences from Shintoism, particularly in the form of ancestral reverence and memorial services that honor the spirits of family ancestors. The blending of these traditions reflects the unique spiritual landscape of Setagaya, where modern practices coexist with ancient rituals, adapting to the needs of a contemporary society.