The term "scattering ashes" generally refers to two types of scattering: "ocean scattering" and "forest scattering." "Ocean scattering" is done with the feeling of "traveling on the ocean currents." "Forest scattering" is done with the idea that "after death, the ashes will return to the earth." In fact, there are some who oppose ocean scattering. Quite a few people question whether scattering the remains of a deceased who lived on land into the sea simply means they will become food for fish. For this reason, ocean scattering seems to be particularly popular among those who loved the sea. While the concept is the same—integrating the ashes into the natural cycle—there are differences between ocean scattering and forest scattering. Ocean scattering typically involves chartering a boat and heading out to sea. However, the total cost often exceeds expectations due to the additional cost of chartering the boat in addition to the scattering fee. Scattering at Mt. Scattering at sea uses a small, dedicated boat, so there are no boat charter fees.

You can still visit the site even if the ashes are scattered. While "ocean scattering" does not allow visitors to visit the site, as the remains will be washed away, it is possible to do so with "forest scattering." However, unlike traditional burial ceremonies, there are no tombstones or monuments, so things are somewhat different. At SANKOTSUYAMA, we recommend the "SCATTERING CELEMONY ATTEND PLAN," but when you visit the site, you can choose a location of your choice for scattering the ashes. Because the scattering area is larger than a regular grave, many people consider using distinctive trees as landmarks to avoid losing their way the next time they visit. Large ancient tombs resemble forests, but by thinking of the deceased as resting in the forest, as in mountain worship, it is possible to visit the site even if the ashes are scattered in the forest. Rather than offering incense or food to commemorate the deceased, you will pray at the site, as if praying. Even with traditional tree burials, there are various restrictions. In many cases, incense is prohibited for fire safety reasons, and offerings are prohibited to keep insects and animals away. In the case of "forest scattering," you can visit the funeral home in a more casual manner, similar to forest bathing.

In the case of the "SCATTERING CELEMONY ATTEND PLAN," you can be present without any problems. We ask that you make your own arrangements for a priest or pastor. However, depending on the scattering location, there may be a possibility of negative publicity, so if you contact us, we will guide you to a location where almost no neighbors will be present. In addition, in the case of the "COLLECTIVE SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN" and the "INDIVISUAL SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN," family members, priests, and pastors cannot be present.

Scattering of ashes is carried out approximately once a month. Preparations for the pulverization process take approximately 7-10 days, so scattering takes place after the process. Depending on the condition of the remains, they may need to dry naturally before pulverization, which may require more time. Depending on the season, there may be prolonged periods of bad weather, and in the case of ocean scattering, the tides and the phases of the moon may also affect the day and time of the scattering, making it necessary to select a specific time and date. For these reasons, for the [COLLECTIVE SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN] and [INDIVISUAL SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN], the detailed schedule is left to us. For the [SCATTERING CELEMONY ATTEND PLAN], we will consult with you regarding your preferences and accommodate your schedule.

You can have the ashes divided and enclosed in accessories for memorial services at home. If you apply for the [INDIVISUAL SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN] or [SCATTERING CELEMONY ATTEND PLAN], we will enclose the ashes free of charge when the ashes are pulverized, so please send a container or accessory along with the ashes. Since dividing the ashes is an individual service, it is not available with the [COLLECTIVE SCATTERING AGENCY PLAN]. Furthermore, we cannot accommodate detailed requests regarding which parts of the ashes you would like to keep, so there may be an additional fee if we are to accommodate such detailed requests. However, you can also select which parts of the ashes you would like to keep and not send them before sending them to us. In this case, you will need to enclose the ashes in the accessories yourself, but there is no additional fee.

The timing of scattering ashes is up to you. It can be immediately after cremation. As a Buddhist ritual, it is often done on the 49th day. It can be on the first or third anniversary of the death. It can also be done after the grief over the death has subsided. If you are not particular about religion, it can be around the birthday of the deceased or a special day. It is also a time for the surviving family to sort out their feelings, so it is fine to do it when you are mentally prepared.

Yes, you are eligible for the discount. For example, if you are scattering the ashes of both your deceased parents together, the first set will cost the regular price, but the second set will be a discounted price. If you scatter the ashes in the same place using the same plan, you will be eligible for the additional discount. Conversely, if you scatter the ashes in different places or use different plans, you will not be eligible for the additional discount.

Yes, you are eligible for the discount. If the applicant is the same, the discount will be applied regardless of how many years have passed. The discount will also be applied if the applicant has passed away. Please note that the discount is only applicable when the ashes are scattered in the same location using the same plan. If the ashes are scattered in different locations or when using different plans, no additional discounts will be applied.

We offer an "ash storage service." This is a one-year contract, but you can decide whether or not to scatter the ashes during that period. Of course, you can also return the ashes at any time. We do not keep the ashes as they are, but rather pulverize them into ashes and store them temporarily.

The Buddhist altar is essentially a "small temple in the home." It has the same meaning as visiting a temple. It's becoming increasingly common to close the altar at the same time as closing the grave. When the person who cared for the altar grows old and moves into a facility, it's often necessary to close the altar, as there's no point in having one. If you have a family temple (temple), it's best to consult with them first. While some temples will handle the removal of the altar, most often they only remove the memorial tablets. While the fee is often paid in the form of an offering, there is no set fee, so it's best to check first. The decline in people with a strong religious belief is one reason why more and more people don't own a Buddhist altar. Originally, Buddhism existed to convey teachings for happiness, not simply to manage graves. The increasing number of options for memorial services without relying on the formality of a Buddhist altar may also be a reason for the decline in the number of people who don't have a Buddhist altar. We also accept the collection and disposal of Buddhist altars. We are able to handle this in the Kanto region, mainly in Kanagawa Prefecture.

With lifestyles changing these days, many people dispose of their memorial tablets when closing their Buddhist altars. In formal Buddhist practice, you can request your family temple (temple) to perform a "closing ceremony" to remove the soul from the body and then have the tablet removed. However, it is not necessary for a monk to perform this "closing ceremony." If you are not bound by sect and prefer to focus on your feelings, simply joining your hands and expressing your gratitude is sufficient. Our company also performs a memorial tablet cremation during the scattering ceremony. Alternatively, if you are considering placing your Buddhist altar outside your home, we can also provide storage for your memorial tablet. When storing your memorial tablet, we handle its daily care and management, reducing the hassle of maintaining your Buddhist altar.

Yes. Basically, we accept disposal of any item. After collection, we generally perform a cremation, but we do so with all our heart. The fee varies depending on the size of the item, but we will respond to your request in detail. It is said that most companies only select and collect expensive items. This is not the case at our company. We will take everything back and dispose of it.

When scattering ashes, identification of the applicant may be required. In addition to the identification documents of the deceased, we may ask for identification such as a driver's license, passport, or My Number card of the person scattering the ashes.

Even if you haven't decided to scatter the ashes right away, you can still discuss this before you die. You can check our website, or you can come to our office for a personal consultation. We are confident that meeting you face-to-face will put your mind at ease. Reservations for scattering of ashes before you die are more reasonable than post-death scattering plans. The price varies depending on the age at the time of application, and the earlier you apply, the cheaper it will be. Please rest assured that there are no additional fees after scattering. When making a reservation before you die, consent from the surviving family members is generally required. If you are a single person, consent from a friend or a post-death administrative contractor is required.

We also handle the disposal of large amounts of cremated remains. While many people have filled up their communal graves and disposed of the remains as garbage, you are a conscientious corporation that properly scatters the ashes. We would be happy to discuss your needs with you. Please contact us directly.