Services for International Visitors
Memorial & Prayer Services at Shounji Temple
Shounji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Seto, Japan.
We welcome not only local residents but also international visitors who wish to experience Japanese Buddhist prayer services or who need support at important moments in life.
Even if you are not familiar with Buddhism or Japanese customs, please do not worry.
We will explain everything carefully and proceed at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
1. Memorial Services
(Remembering Ancestors and Loved Ones)
In Japanese Buddhism, memorial services are held to express gratitude to ancestors and to pray for the peace of those who have passed away.
These services are not limited to Buddhists and can be meaningful for anyone wishing to remember and honor loved ones.
Types of services
We offer traditional memorial services such as the 49th-day memorial, yearly anniversaries, and services for the first summer after passing (Hatsubon).
If you are unfamiliar with these customs, we will gladly explain their meaning.
Location
Services can be held at Shounji Temple, at your home, or at cemeteries and funeral halls in the local area.
Flexible style
Services may be conducted for individuals, couples, families, or small groups.
We will adjust the content and length to suit your needs and background.
2. Prayer Services
(Wishes, Safety, and Important Life Events)
Prayer services in Japanese temples are offered to wish for safety, peace, and positive direction in life.
They are not about forcing belief, but about taking time to reflect and set intentions.
Common prayers include:
Traffic safety – for new cars or daily driving
Success in exams and careers – for studies, qualifications, and job hunting
Yakuyoke (protection from misfortune) – for difficult periods or major life changes
Other prayers – health, family well-being, safe childbirth, new beginnings, and more
If you are unsure which prayer is suitable, we can help you choose.
3. Reservations and Offerings
Reservation system
All services are offered by advance reservation so that we may prepare properly and provide personal guidance.
Offerings (Ofuse)
In Japanese Buddhism, there is no fixed price for prayers or memorial services.
Offerings are given voluntarily as a gesture of gratitude.
We will explain the general range in advance if you would like, so please feel free to ask.
4. Contact and Consultation
If you have questions or would like to make a reservation, please contact us using one of the methods below.
By phone
0561-41-0532
You may say, “I am calling about a prayer or memorial service.”
By LINE
Add us via the following link:
https://lin.ee/27Xd7T24
Available 24 hours a day.
This is recommended if you prefer written communication or need time to consider your questions.