Database: Funerals and Tombstones

During the 16th century, the dead among the working class were commonly buried while cremation was reserved for those who could afford it. When one was near death, monks were summoned to their bedside for prayers and remained to perform the necessary postmortem rituals. Funeral services were always conducted by the Buddhist clergy. Ceremonies for the deceased were held periodically, especially on the 49th day following their death.

Cremation became widespread in the 17th century, and ashes were usually placed in a grave or sometimes scattered. Not all graves marked by tombstones contained bodies. Typically, a family altar was erected and maintained within the home by the head of the household for the veneration of the dead. Family members, particularly extended family, would pay their respects and perform rituals. Daily ceremonies were performed, offering prayers in the memory of all deceased family members, before flowers were placed at the altar and on the grave of the deceased.

It was believed that warriors killed in battle or forced to commit suicide the day after the battle, suffered a "bad death." The thinking was that their souls had not been appeased by the usual rituals, and so was wandering restlessly, full of anger towards the living. Some believed that calling out the deceased's name and reliving their exploits through storytelling would help appease souls and calm vengeful spirits.