The Growing Option of "Burial" in Japan: Considering New Forms of Interment in a Society Where Cremation is the Norm
In Japan, it is common practice to cremate the deceased. Since the 2000s, Japan's cremation rate has exceeded 99%, with the vast majority of people choosing cremation. However, in recent years, "burial" (interment of the body without cremation) has been gradually gaining attention due to religious reasons or personal wishes.
Is burial prohibited under Japanese law? In fact, the "Act on Cemetery, Burial, etc." (Graveyards Act) in Japan does not deem burial illegal. While burial is legally permitted, the reality is that many local governments and cemeteries do not accept burials due to sanitary and management concerns.
Behind the increasing number of people wishing for burial lies a diversity of values. Reasons vary, ranging from those who wish to follow the teachings of a specific religion to those who value the concept of returning to nature. However, because the number of places where burial is possible is extremely limited, it is not easy to carry out an interment as one might wish.
Currently, there is a shortage of cemeteries in Japan that accept burials. As the number of people hoping for burial grows, many are taking an interest in what forms of interment will be accepted by society in the future.
In a Japanese society where cremation is the standard, the option of burial is not yet common. However, as we continue to respect individual freedom and diverse cultures, we may see more opportunities for society as a whole to discuss the options for interment in the future.