Hojo-ji Temple (Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Access, Funeral, and Crematorium Information
Hojo-ji Temple is a temple funeral hall located in Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is a historic temple that has been cherished by the local community for many years. This article provides comprehensive information for those considering or planning to attend a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, including detailed facility information, access methods, nearby crematoriums, and funeral customs unique to Kagawa Prefecture.
Basic Information about Hojo-ji Temple
Hojo-ji Temple is a temple funeral hall located in Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, and is used for funerals and memorial services in the community. It is chosen by many as a facility where people can remember their loved ones in a traditional temple setting.
Location and Contact Information
Address: 254-1 Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture (Funeral Hall), 174-1 Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture (Main Hall)
Phone Number: 0877-46-4484
Facility Type: Temple Funeral Hall
Parking: Available
Hojo-ji Temple has multiple address listings. This is because the main hall and funeral hall are located close together. It is recommended to clarify your purpose of visit beforehand and confirm the appropriate location.
Access to Hojo-ji Temple
Access by Train
Nearest Station: JR Yosan Line, Sakaide Station
Distance from Station: Approximately 3km
Travel Time:
- On foot: Approximately 38 minutes
- By taxi: Approximately 8 minutes
Sakaide Station is conveniently located as the gateway to the Seto Ohashi Bridge connecting Shikoku and Honshu. It is easily accessible from both Takamatsu and Okayama.
Access by Car
Sakaide City is located almost in the center of Kagawa Prefecture, and is easily accessible from the Sakaide Interchange on the Seto-Chuo Expressway. Hojo-ji Temple has ample parking, making it possible to attend by car.
Access from Major Roads:
- From National Route 11, head towards Kawazu-cho
- Approximately 10 minutes southeast from Sakaide city center
Due to the large number of attendees on the day of the funeral, it is recommended to arrive with plenty of time to spare.
About Funerals at Hojo-ji Temple
Characteristics as a Temple Funeral Hall
Hojo-ji Temple, as a temple funeral hall, can conduct funerals based on Buddhist traditions. Funerals at temples have the following characteristics:
Advantages of Temple Funerals:
- You can send off the deceased in a solemn atmosphere.
- You can receive heartfelt memorial services with close interaction with the monks.
- It is possible to hold a funeral that emphasizes religious rituals.
- For temple parishioners, holding the funeral at their family temple deepens their connection with the deceased.
Funeral Formats
Hojo-ji Temple accommodates funerals of various sizes.
General Funeral: A traditional funeral format inviting a wide range of attendees, including relatives, friends, and colleagues.
Family Funeral: A small-scale funeral held only with close relatives. This format is becoming increasingly popular.
One-Day Funeral: A format where the wake is omitted, and the funeral service and cremation are held on the same day.
Direct Cremation: A format where religious rituals are minimized, and only cremation is performed.
Funeral Flow
The general flow of a funeral at a temple is as follows:
- Death and Transportation: Transfer from hospital or home to Hojo-ji Temple or a mortuary facility.
- Consultation: Deciding on the date, scale, and details with the funeral home.
- Encoffining: The ceremony of placing the deceased in the coffin.
- Wake: A ceremony to remember the deceased and spend the night together.
- Funeral and Farewell Ceremony: The ceremony of saying a final farewell to the deceased.
- Departure of the Coffin: Departure for the crematorium.
- Cremation: Cremation at a nearby crematorium.
- Bone Collection: The ceremony of collecting the ashes.
- First Seven Days Memorial Service: Currently, this is often held on the day of the funeral.
Crematoriums near Hojo-ji Temple
After the funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, cremation takes place at a nearby crematorium. The following crematoriums are located in Sakaide City and the surrounding area.
Sakaide City Municipal Tao Crematorium
Location: Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture
Features: A public crematorium operated by Sakaide City, and the closest crematorium to Hojo-ji Temple.
Usage Fees: Varies depending on whether you are a resident or not.
Sakaide residents have priority access and lower fees. Reservations are required, so it is important to arrange early through a funeral home.
Utazu Town Crematorium
Location: Utazu Town, Ayauta District, Kagawa Prefecture
Access: Crematorium in Utazu Town, adjacent to Sakaide City
Features: Relatively new facility with well-equipped facilities
Zentsuji City Funeral Hall
Location: Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture
Features: Crematorium operated by Zentsuji City
Access: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Sakaide City
Tadotsu Town Crematorium
Location: Tadotsu Town, Nakatado District, Kagawa Prefecture
Features: Publicly operated crematorium in Tadotsu Town
Marugame City Sakuradani Seien Crematorium
Location: Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture
Features: Crematorium in Marugame City with modern facilities
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Sakaide City
The choice of crematorium is determined considering factors such as the deceased’s place of residence, the funeral date, and the availability of the crematorium. The funeral home will suggest a suitable crematorium, so let’s decide together after discussing it.
Funeral Customs and Practices in Kagawa Prefecture
Kagawa Prefecture has unique funeral customs. Those planning a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple will find that understanding local customs will allow for smoother preparations.
Funeral Customs Unique to Kagawa Prefecture
Characteristics of the Wake Reception: In Kagawa Prefecture, it is common to offer a meal to attendees after the wake (“wake reception”). Sanuki udon noodles are sometimes served.
Average Amount of Condolence Money: The average amount of condolence money in Kagawa Prefecture is roughly the same as the national average, but there are slight differences depending on the region.
- Relatives: 30,000 to 100,000 yen
- Friends and Acquaintances: 5,000 to 10,000 yen
- Company Colleagues: 5,000 to 10,000 yen
Post-Funeral Customs: It is common to hold the first seven-day memorial service on the day of the funeral (“accelerated first seven-day memorial service”).
Etiquette Regarding Mourning Attire
Wake: Semi-formal mourning attire (black formal wear) is common. Men should wear black suits, and women should wear black dresses or suits.
Funeral/Memorial Service: Formal or semi-formal mourning attire is appropriate. Family members should wear formal mourning attire, while attendees should wear semi-formal attire.
Points to Note:
- Avoid shiny materials.
- Only a single strand necklace of pearls or onyx is acceptable as jewelry.
- Choose black shoes and bags without any shine.
- Men’s ties should be plain black.
Regarding Floral Arrangements and Condolence Telegrams
Floral Arrangements: Fresh flowers used to decorate the funeral venue. These are typically arranged through the funeral home. The average cost is around 15,000 to 20,000 yen per arrangement.
Condolence Telegrams: Telegrams of condolence sent when unable to attend. These can be arranged through NTT, the post office, or online. Arrangements should be made to arrive before the start of the funeral.
Recommended Funeral Halls in Sakaide City
Besides Hojo-ji Temple, there are several other funeral halls in Sakaide City. Please use this information for comparison.
Kanakura Allstone Sakaide Hall
A private funeral hall located in Sakaide City, capable of accommodating everything from family funerals to large-scale services. It features modern facilities and a calm atmosphere.
Features:
- Barrier-free design
- Ample parking
- Accommodation available
- Dedicated hall for family funerals
Other Funeral Facilities in Sakaide City
Sakaide City has several other funeral facilities, each with its own unique features. Choose based on your budget, scale, religion/sect, and accessibility.
Five Points for Choosing a Funeral Hall
Choosing the right funeral hall is the first step to a successful memorial service for the deceased. Please consider the following points.
1. Location and Access
Consider the convenience of attendees and check access from train stations and bus stops, as well as the availability of parking. This is especially important if there are many elderly attendees.
2. Facility Size and Equipment
Check if the facility is large enough to accommodate the expected number of attendees, whether there are waiting rooms and accommodations, and whether it is barrier-free.
3. Religious and Sectarian Restrictions
Temple funeral halls may be limited to specific sects. Confirm in advance whether they can accommodate non-religious funerals or funerals of other sects.
4. Cost Transparency
Check if the breakdown of costs, including facility usage fees, equipment fees, and additional options, is clearly presented. It is recommended to obtain multiple quotes.
5. Service and Support System
The responsiveness of the funeral home staff, whether 24-hour support is available, and the level of after-funeral support (such as arranging memorial services) are also important factors to consider.
How to Consult and Inquire about Funerals at Hojo-ji Temple
If you are considering a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, you can consult and inquire using the following methods:
Direct Inquiry
Telephone: 0877-46-4484
You can inquire by phone during business hours. You can consult about funeral arrangements and schedule facility tours.
Consultation through a Funeral Home
In most cases, the funeral home will coordinate with the temple. If you inform the funeral home that you wish to hold the funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, they will proceed with the arrangements.
Points to consider when choosing a funeral home:
- Extensive experience in Sakaide City
- Experience with funerals at Hojo-ji Temple
- Clear estimates and thorough explanations of additional costs
- 24-hour service available
- Comprehensive after-sales support
Importance of Pre-consultation
If possible, we recommend having a pre-consultation about funeral arrangements while you are still healthy.
Benefits of Pre-consultation:
- You can calmly tour the facility
- You have time to compare and consider costs
- It is easier to reflect the wishes of the deceased and family
- You can respond calmly even in sudden situations
Sakaide City Local Information
Overview of Sakaide City
Sakaide City is located almost in the center of Kagawa Prefecture, facing the Seto Inland Sea, and has a population of approximately 50,000. Known as the gateway to Shikoku on the Seto Ohashi Bridge, Sakaide City is characterized by its history of salt production and the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.
Major Tourist Attractions:
- Seto Ohashi Memorial Park
- Kagawa Prefectural Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Museum of Art
- Shiramine-ji Temple (Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Temple No. 81)
- Kamiya Shrine (National Important Cultural Property)
- Sakaide City Salt Industry Museum
Sakaide City Transportation Access
Railway: The JR Yosan Line runs through the city, approximately 15 minutes to Takamatsu Station and approximately 40 minutes to Okayama Station.
Expressway: Sakaide Interchange on the Seto-Chuo Expressway provides good access to Honshu.
Airport: Approximately 40 minutes by car to Takamatsu Airport.
Kamakura Shinsho Group Sites
For those seeking information on funerals and end-of-life planning, various information sites operated by Kamakura Shinsho are helpful.
Main Services:
- Good Funeral: Nationwide funeral home and crematorium search site
- Good Grave: Cemetery and burial ground information site
- Good Buddhist Altar: Buddhist altar shop search site
- Good Inheritance: Inheritance information and expert referral site
These sites allow you to check detailed information, reviews, and price comparisons for funeral facilities nationwide, including Hojo-ji Temple. They are convenient when comparing multiple facilities.
Map Information around Hojo-ji Temple
Hojo-ji Temple is located in Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, approximately 3km southeast of Sakaide city center. The surrounding area is a quiet environment with a mix of residential areas and farmland.
Nearby Facilities:
- Convenience store: Approximately 5 minutes by car
- Gas station: Approximately 5 minutes by car
- Restaurants: Numerous around Sakaide Station
On the day of the funeral, we recommend using a map app or car navigation system and arriving with plenty of time to spare.
Summary
Hojo-ji Temple, located in Kawazu-cho, Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture, is a temple funeral hall used for funerals and memorial services by local residents. It is easily accessible, approximately 8 minutes by taxi from JR Sakaide Station, and has ample parking.
The temple funeral hall offers a solemn atmosphere for saying goodbye to the deceased, and there are several crematoriums nearby, including the Sakaide City Municipal Tao Crematorium. By understanding the unique funeral customs of Kagawa Prefecture and observing proper etiquette regarding mourning attire, floral tributes, and condolence telegrams, you can conduct a heartfelt funeral that respectfully commemorates the deceased.
A funeral is an important milestone in life. When considering a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, it is recommended to visit the facility beforehand and consult thoroughly with a funeral home to choose a format that aligns with the wishes of the deceased and their family.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hojo-ji Temple
Q1: Can I use Hojo-ji Temple for a funeral even if I am not a temple parishioner?
A1: The conditions for using a temple funeral hall vary depending on the temple. If you wish to hold a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple, we recommend that you confirm directly with the temple or funeral home. Generally, some temples allow non-parishioners to use their services, but there may be restrictions based on sect or other conditions.
Q2: Does Hojo-ji Temple have parking?
A2: Yes, Hojo-ji Temple has ample parking. However, since many attendees will be present on the day of the funeral, we recommend arriving with plenty of time to spare. If you are concerned about parking space, please check with the temple or funeral home in advance.
Q3: What is the nearest crematorium to Hojo-ji Temple?
A3: The nearest crematorium to Hojo-ji Temple is the Sakaide City Municipal Tao Crematorium. It is a public crematorium operated by Sakaide City, and residents have priority access. Other options include the Utazu Town Crematorium and the Marugame City Sakuradani Seien Crematorium. Funeral homes will arrange cremation, so please consult with them if you have any preferences.
Q4: Is a family funeral possible at Hojo-ji Temple?
A4: Hojo-ji Temple also accommodates family funerals. In recent years, more and more people are choosing family funerals attended only by close relatives. It is recommended to consult with the temple or funeral home in advance regarding the number of attendees and the desired scale of the funeral.
Q5: What is the average cost of a funeral at Hojo-ji Temple?
A5: Funeral costs vary greatly depending on the scale of the funeral, the number of attendees, the plan chosen, and optional services. A general funeral costs around 1 million to 2 million yen, while a family funeral costs around 500,000 to 1 million yen. However, please obtain an estimate from a funeral home for details. Obtaining estimates from multiple funeral homes will help you determine a fair price.
Q6: Are there any particular manners to be aware of at funerals in Kagawa Prefecture?
A6: Funeral manners in Kagawa Prefecture are basically the same as nationwide, but there are regional differences, such as the occasional serving of Sanuki udon at the wake. Formal mourning attire (black formal wear) is standard, and the amount of condolence money is about the same as the national average. If you have any questions, you can consult with the funeral home, and they will provide advice tailored to local customs.
Q7: What is the most convenient way to get to Hojo-ji Temple?
A7: The most convenient way is by taxi from the nearest station, JR Sakaide Station, which takes about 8 minutes. Walking takes about 38 minutes, so we recommend taking a taxi if you are elderly or have luggage. Parking is available, so you can also come by car. For attendees coming from far away, it is a good idea to advise them to take a taxi from Sakaide Station.
