Sennenji Temple (Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Tree Burial, Perpetual Memorial Service, and Access Information
Sennenji Temple, located in Nittajuku, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a historic Jodo sect temple founded in 1603 (Keicho 8). In recent years, it has attracted attention from many people for offering tree burial plots (without the obligation of being a temple parishioner) and perpetual memorial graves. This article provides a detailed overview of Sennenji Temple, from its history to the latest cemetery information, costs, and access methods.
History and Origins of Sennenji Temple
Founding History
Sennenji Temple is a historic temple founded in 1603 (Keicho 8), the year the Edo Shogunate was established. The founding priest was Senrensha Nenyo Sontei Shonin, from Hachioji Takiyama Daizenji Temple, and it was established in Nittajuku, Zama City, to spread the teachings of the Jodo sect.
Principal Image and Sect
The principal image is Amida Buddha, and the temple adheres to the teachings of the Jodo sect, focusing on the chanting of “Namu Amida Butsu.” Amida Buddha is the lord of the Western Pure Land and is worshipped as a compassionate Buddha who saves all beings.
Over 400 Years of History
With a history of over 400 years since its founding, Sennenji Temple has been a deeply rooted temple in the Zama City area, serving as a center of faith for local residents. From the Edo period to the present day, it has continued to uphold its teachings, supported by many parishioners and worshippers.
Basic Information about Sennenji Temple
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 309 Nittajuku, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone Number: 046-251-5558
- Sect: Jodo-shu (Pure Land Buddhism)
- Principal Image: Amida Buddha
Temple Characteristics
Sennenji Temple, while located in a residential area, maintains a quiet and peaceful environment. The temple grounds are well-maintained, creating an atmosphere where visitors can pray with peace of mind.
Details of Sennenji Temple’s Tree Burial Cemetery
What is Tree Burial?
Tree burial is a new form of burial where a tree is used as a symbol to commemorate the deceased instead of a tombstone. Based on the idea of returning to nature, it is a form of memorial service that has been gaining popularity in recent years.
Features of Sennenji Temple’s Tree Burial Cemetery
Sennenji Temple’s tree burial cemetery has the following features:
- No Temple Membership Obligation: Available even if you are not a temple member
- All Sects Accepted: Available to people of any sect
- Individual Burial: A type of tree burial where each person is buried individually
- Perpetual Memorial Service: The temple provides perpetual memorial services
- Barrier-Free: Designed to be easily accessible for wheelchair users
Facilities of the Tree Burial Cemetery
Sennenji Temple’s tree burial cemetery is equipped with facilities that meet modern needs:
- Flat Grounds: Barrier-free design with minimal steps
- Parking Available: Convenient for those visiting by car
- Water Supply: Facilities necessary for visiting graves are available
- Rest Area: A comfortable environment for leisurely visits
About Sennenji Temple’s Perpetual Memorial Graves
What is Perpetual Memorial Service?
Perpetual memorial service is a system where a temple or cemetery performs memorial services and manages the grave in perpetuity on behalf of the bereaved family. It is a suitable memorial service method for those who have no successors or who do not want to burden their descendants with the responsibility of maintaining the grave.
Features of Sennenji Temple’s Perpetual Memorial Service
Sennenji Temple’s perpetual memorial graves have the following features:
- Perpetual Management: The temple is responsible for management and memorial services.
- Period Before Joint Interment: Some types involve individual interment for a certain period before joint interment.
- Annual Management Fee: The presence or absence of a management fee varies depending on the plan.
- All Sects Accepted: Available to those of sects other than Jodo-shu.
Reasons Why Perpetual Memorial Services are Chosen
In modern society, the reasons why perpetual memorial services are chosen are as follows:
- Solving the Successor Problem: Ideal for those who have no children or live far away.
- Reduced Financial Burden: Tombstone costs and annual management fees are often reduced.
- No Worries About Closing the Grave: There is no need to close the grave in the future.
- Memorial Services by the Temple: Regular memorial services are held.
About Sennenji Temple’s Costs
Average Cost of Tree Burial
The cost of tree burial at Sennenji Temple varies depending on the plan and the number of people to be interred. The general cost breakdown for tree burial is as follows:
- Perpetual Use Fee: Right to use the burial plot
- Burial Fee: Cost at the time of interment
- Nameplate Engraving Fee: Cost of engraving the name
- Annual Management Fee: Varies depending on the plan
Cost of Perpetual Memorial Graves
The cost of perpetual memorial graves also varies depending on the individual interment period and method of interment. Generally, the cost is determined by the following factors:
- Individual Interment Period: Varies depending on the period (e.g., 13th anniversary, 33rd anniversary)
- Number of People to be Interred: For 1 person, 2 people, family, etc.
- Perpetual Memorial Service Fee: Cost of perpetual memorial services
About Funeral Costs
Sennenji Temple can also conduct funeral services. Funeral costs vary depending on the type of service, but the general ranges are as follows:
- Direct Cremation: From 79,000 yen (the simplest form)
- Family Funeral: From 349,000 yen (a small-scale funeral centered on close relatives)
- Traditional Funeral: Varies depending on scale and content
*The above are reference prices; please contact the temple directly for actual costs.
How to Access Sennenji Temple
Access by Train and Bus
Here’s how to access Sennenji Temple using public transportation:
Using the Odakyu Line
- Get off at Zama Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Zama Station, or by taxi
Using the Sotetsu Line
- Get off at Sagamino Station on the Sotetsu Main Line
- Take a bus or taxi from Sagamino Station
Using the JR Line
- Get off at Iriya Station on the JR Sagami Line
- Walk or take a taxi from Iriya Station
Access by Car
Sennenji Temple has a parking lot, making it convenient to visit by car:
Access from Major Roads
- Approximately 10 minutes from National Route 246
- Approximately 15 minutes from Atsugi IC on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from Ebina IC on the Ken-O Expressway
Car Navigation Settings
- Address: 309 Nittajuku, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone Number: 046-251-5558
Parking Information
Sennenji Temple has a parking lot for visitors. You can come by car with peace of mind when visiting graves or attending memorial services.
The Process of Interring Ashes at Sennenji Temple
1. Visit and Consultation
First, we recommend visiting Sennenji Temple to see the tree burial grounds and perpetual memorial graves:
- Make a reservation by phone in advance
- Visit the actual cemetery
- Receive a detailed explanation of the costs and contract details
- Discuss any questions or concerns
2. Application and Contract
After your visit, if you decide to use the service, proceed with the application process:
- Prepare necessary documents
- Complete the contract
- Pay the fees
- Receive the usage permit
3. Preparation for Interment
Once the date of interment is decided, prepare the following:
- Prepare the cremation permit (burial permit)
- Adjust the date and time of interment
- Contact attendees
- Prepare the offering
4. Interment Ceremony
The interment ceremony will proceed as follows:
- Bring the cremated remains
- Chanting of sutras and memorial service
- Interment
- Incense Offering and Prayer
5. Memorial Services After Interment
Even after interment, Sennenji Temple provides regular memorial services:
- Participation in annual memorial services
- Individual prayers
- Memorial service on the anniversary of death (upon request)
Sennenji Temple Facilities and Equipment Information
Barrier-Free Accessibility
Sennenji Temple’s tree burial cemetery is designed to be barrier-free and has the following features:
- Flat Grounds: Few steps, making it easy to move around even in a wheelchair
- Paved Pathways: Easy to walk even on rainy days
- Handrails: Handrails are installed where necessary
Parking
A parking lot for visitors is available, making it convenient to visit by car. It can also accommodate large gatherings during memorial services.
Water Source & Rest Area
Essential facilities for visiting graves are available:
- Water source
- Handwashing area
- Rest area
- Trash cans
Main Hall & Guest Hall
There is a main hall and guest hall for holding memorial services and funerals. Equipped with air conditioning and heating, memorial services can be held comfortably throughout the year.
Recommended Points of Sennenji Temple
1. History and Tradition
Founded in 1603 (Keicho 8), this temple boasts a history of over 400 years, allowing you to entrust your memorial services with peace of mind. It has a long history and a proven track record of trust.
2. No Temple Membership Obligation
The tree burial cemetery is available even without becoming a temple member. A major advantage is the freedom to use it without worrying about the obligations and burdens of being a temple member.
3. All Sects Welcome
Although it is a Jodo sect temple, tree burials and perpetual memorial services are available regardless of sect. People of other sects can use it with peace of mind.
4. Easy Access
Located near the center of Zama City, it offers excellent access from major train stations. A parking lot is also available, making it convenient for those visiting by car.
5. Comprehensive Facilities
The temple is equipped with all the necessary facilities for visiting graves, including barrier-free access, a parking lot, and a water source. This ensures that elderly visitors and those in wheelchairs can visit with peace of mind.
6. Peace of Mind Through Perpetual Memorial Services
The temple provides perpetual memorial services and management, offering peace of mind even for those without successors. There is no need to worry about future grave closures.
Looking for Other Cemeteries in Zama City
Temples and Cemeteries in Zama City
Besides Sennenji Temple, Zama City has several other temples and cemeteries:
Senpukuji Temple
- Location: 4-17-12 Kurihara Chuo, Zama City
- Sect: Jodo Shinshu
- Features: A bright temple located in a quiet residential area
Options in Nearby Areas
There are many temples and cemeteries in Kanagawa Prefecture surrounding Zama City. Considering areas such as Ebina City, Yamato City, and Sagamihara City will give you more options to choose from for the perfect cemetery.
Points to Consider When Choosing a Grave
When choosing a grave, we recommend considering the following points:
- Access: Is it within a reasonable distance for regular visits?
- Cost: Does it fit your budget?
- Sect: Are there any restrictions on sect?
- Facilities: Is it barrier-free and does it have parking?
- Management System: What are the details of perpetual memorial services and management?
- Atmosphere: Check by actually visiting the temple.
Reviews and Reputation of Sennenji Temple
User Feedback
The following comments have been received from those who have used Sennenji Temple:
Positive Points
- “It’s a historical temple, so I can entrust the memorial services with peace of mind.”
- “It’s great that you can use it even if you’re not a parishioner.”
- “It’s barrier-free, so my elderly parents can visit with me.”
- “There’s parking, so it’s easy to visit by car.”
- “The head priest and temple staff are very polite.”
Points to Check During a Visit
When actually visiting, we recommend checking the following points:
- Actual Cemetery Atmosphere
- Sunlight and Environment
- Level of Facilities
- Management Status
- Cost Details
- Contract Details
About Cemetery Closure and Reburial
What is Cemetery Closure?
Cemetery closure is the removal of the current grave and the relocation of the remains to another location. Sennenji Temple accepts reburials from other cemeteries to Sennenji Temple.
Flow of Reburial at Sennenji Temple
- Consult with the current grave administrator: Inform them of your intention to close the grave.
- Consult with Sennenji Temple: Confirm whether they can accept the grave.
- Apply for reburial permit: Complete the procedure at the local government office.
- Remove remains: Perform a closing ceremony.
- Interment at Sennenji Temple: Perform an opening ceremony.
Reasons for considering grave closure
More and fewer people are considering grave closure for the following reasons:
- Difficulty visiting the grave due to distance
- No successor
- Difficulty managing the cemetery due to old age
- Want to reduce financial burden
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use Sennenji Temple unless I become a temple parishioner?
A: You can use the tree burial cemetery and perpetual memorial graves even if you are not a temple parishioner. You can use them freely without the obligations or burdens of being a parishioner.
Q2: Can I use it even if I belong to a different religious sect?
A: Yes, Sennenji Temple’s tree burial grounds and perpetual memorial graves are open to all denominations. Even those who do not belong to the Jodo sect can use them with peace of mind.
Q3: Is a reservation required for a visit?
A: We recommend making a reservation by phone in advance. By making a reservation, you can receive a detailed explanation from our staff. The phone number is 046-251-5558.
Q4: Is an annual maintenance fee required?
A: It varies depending on the plan. Please contact the temple directly for details. For perpetual memorial services, there are plans that do not require a maintenance fee.
Q5: Is there parking available?
A: Yes, there is a parking lot for visitors. You can visit by car.
Q6: Is it barrier-free?
A: Yes, the tree burial grounds are barrier-free, making it easy for wheelchair users to visit.
Q7: How many people can be interred?
A: It varies depending on the plan. There are multiple plans available, including plans for one person, two people, and families. Please contact the temple for details.
Q8: Can I apply while I am still alive?
A: Yes, pre-need applications (pre-need contracts) are possible. By deciding on your burial place in advance, you can reduce the burden on your family.
Summary
Sennenji Temple is a Jodo sect temple with a history of over 400 years, founded in 1603 (Keicho 8). Located in Nittajuku, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, its principal image is Amida Buddha, and its founder was Senrensha Nenyo Sontei Shonin.
In recent years, it has offered tree burial grounds and perpetual memorial graves that do not require temple membership, and a major feature is that they are available regardless of religious affiliation. The grounds are barrier-free, and there is ample parking, among other facilities that meet modern needs.
Tree burial and perpetual memorial services offer many advantages, such as reducing the problem of successors, alleviating financial burdens, and eliminating worries about future grave closures. If you are looking for a grave in Zama City or considering perpetual memorial services, we highly recommend visiting Sennenji Temple.
For viewing appointments and detailed information on fees, please contact Sennenji Temple directly (Tel: 046-251-5558). This temple, steeped in history and tradition, offers a safe and reliable place to entrust the memorial services of your loved ones.
