Last updated:
Release date:
"When should I change my white wooden temporary memorial tablet for a real one?" "What are the differences between the materials?" "How should I dispose of it?" To help you avoid any confusion when choosing a memorial tablet, we bring you the definitive guide that covers everything from meanings, types, average prices, sect-specific thinking, maintenance, and disposal methods .
This article provides a complete explanation of everything from preparations up until the 49th day to the latest trends in modern memorial tablets. Read on to find the perfect one for your home.
What is an ihai? Its origins and basic meaning
An ihai is a memorial tablet bearing the posthumous name and date of death, and is believed to be a place where the soul of the deceased resides. Originating from the Chinese Confucian "ihai" (placeholder) , it was introduced to Japan by Zen monks during the Kamakura period, and by the Edo period it had become common to place it in a Buddhist altar.
Three reasons to prepare an ihai
- An object of worship - Along with the principal image, it is a symbol for conveying daily reports and gratitude.
- Inheriting ancestral memorial services - By lining up the ancestors by generation, the family line is made visible.
- Grief care : The custom of joining hands provides emotional support for bereaved families.
List of types of memorial tablets (temporary memorial tablets, official memorial tablets, retractable memorial tablets, etc.)
| Major classification | Minor classification | Features | Price range* |
|---|---|---|---|
| temporary memorial tablet | Plain wood memorial tablet | Used from the funeral to the 49th day | 0-2,000 yen |
| Standard tile | Painting tiles | Lacquer and gold leaf on wood. Also available with maki-e. | 8,000 to 100,000 yen |
| Karaki memorial tablet | Made from fine wood such as ebony or rosewood | 10,000 to 80,000 yen | |
| Modern memorial tablets | Glass, acrylic, parquet, etc. | 20,000 to 150,000 yen | |
| Fuda tile | Engraving/writing for 1-2 people – space-saving | - | |
| Retractable memorial tablet | Store multiple bills together | Approximately 30,000 yen | |
| Pet memorial tablets | Crystal photo holder/small size, color printing available | 5,000 to 30,000 yen | |
| *Prices include tax and may vary depending on material. | |||
Characteristics and benefits of memorial tablets by material
Wooden memorial tablets (lacquered memorial tablets, Karaki memorial tablets)
- Traditional and formal.
- Lacquerware is moisture resistant but heavy.
Glass and Crystal
- It has a transparent appearance and goes well with Western-style rooms.
- Photos and messages can be added using UV engraving.
Parquet and solid wood
- Nordic style with walnut and maple.
- Popular among young people who place importance on interior design.
acrylic
- Lightweight and hard to break.
- Perfect for modern Buddhist altars and mini Buddhist altars.
Market price and cost breakdown of memorial tablets
| item | Estimated cost | remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | 8,000 yen to 150,000 yen | Determined by material and size |
| Lettering (posthumous name engraving) | Free - 10,000 yen | More and more stores are offering UV engraving for free |
| Maki-e and gold powder options | 3,000 yen to 30,000 yen | Hand-painted makie is expensive |
| Consecration (soul-infusion) offering | 5,000 to 30,000 yen | Request to a monk |
| Shipping and special paulownia wood box | 0 to 3,000 yen | When purchasing online |
5 steps to choosing the right memorial tablet
- Measure the size of the altar - it should not be taller than the principal image.
- Match your existing memorial tablet - Match the size and color to create a unified look.
- Check with your sect/family temple - check the posthumous name format and whether or not it contains Sanskrit characters.
- Calculate delivery time backwards - order 2-3 weeks in advance to arrive in time for the 49th day memorial service.
- Compare quotes —Check in advance whether engraving and shipping fees are included. When ordering online, be sure to check the total price.
The process from ordering an ihai to receiving it
| Number of days | itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Confirmation of temporary memorial tablet information (posthumous name and date of death) |
| Days 1-2 | Decide on the design and place an order in store/online |
| 3 to 14 days | Woodworking → Undercoating → Carving/Maki-e |
| 15th to 18th | Inspection and shipping |
| 19th to 25th | Receiving → Opening ceremony (soul-infusion) |
Views on memorial tablets by sect - is Jodo Shinshu an exception?
As a general rule, Jodo Shinshu (Honganji, Otani, etc.) sects do not use memorial tablets, but enshrine death registers or posthumous name scrolls. If you wish to make a memorial tablet, be sure to consult with the temple.
On the other hand, memorial tablets are required in Zen, Tendai, Nichiren , and other sects. Rules for writing Sanskrit characters and attendant characters vary depending on the sect, so be sure to check with your family temple before ordering.
Care of memorial tablets and proper placement
- Avoid direct sunlight and air conditioning, and place inside the Buddhist altar or on an earthquake-resistant mat.
- Dust off with a soft, dry cloth once a month; do not wipe the lacquered surface with water .
- Wipe the glass memorial tablet with diluted neutral detergent and return it to its original state after it has completely dried.
How to dispose of and collect old memorial tablets
| method | flow | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|
| Eye-closing ceremony + burning ceremony | Invite a monk to remove the soul and then burn it at the temple. | 10,000 to 30,000 yen |
| Permanent memorial service | Entrust the remains to a temple or cemetery for regular memorial services | 30,000 to 100,000 yen |
| Buddhist altar shops and specialist dealers | Pick-up → Joint memorial service | 5,000 to 15,000 yen |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can an ihai be made after the 49th day?
It is possible, but if you cannot make it in time for the memorial service, please explain the situation to the priest.
Is it okay for a couple to have one memorial tablet?
There are increasing cases of two people being carved on one memorial tablet as a married couple's memorial tablet.
Can a modern memorial tablet be placed without a Buddhist altar?
It is often placed in conjunction with a mini Buddhist altar for the living room or a memorial stand.
What if the posthumous name hasn't been decided yet?
It is safe to choose a store that offers post-posthumous name engraving services.
Are glass memorial tablets easy to break?
Optical glass is very hard, so there is almost no risk of it breaking under normal use.
What is the lifespan of an ihai?
It is made of wood and lasts for 20 to 30 years. Consider repainting or replacing it on the 33rd or 50th anniversary of the death.
Should posthumous Buddhist names be engraved vertically or horizontally?
Generally, it is written vertically, but crystal memorial tablets can also be written horizontally.
What should I be careful about when ordering online?
Be sure to check shipping costs, engraving fees, delivery times, and return policies. We recommend a store that offers photo proofing services.
Is it necessary to open the eyes of a pet memorial tablet?
Many temples do not require this from a religious standpoint, but if you wish, sutra chanting and memorial services are available.
What if I want to combine multiple memorial tablets?
It can store up to 10 to 13 rotating memorial tablets , saving space.
summary
An ihai is an important religious item that connects the hearts of the deceased and their family. Consider the type, material, sect, budget, and delivery time comprehensively, and prepare it by ordering within 49 days .
The basic rule for old memorial tablets is to close the eyes and then burn them. Please take care of them properly and store them in the right place, creating an environment where you can pray to them for many years to come.
Click here for the memorial tablet product page>
