Every culture develops a heartfelt way to say goodbye and remember lost loved ones. From solemn ceremonies to festive celebrations, every ritual is rooted in the love people have for their families. If you’re pre-planning a funeral service, knowing some of the traditions people have worldwide may give you ideas for how you want your memorial to be.

5 Unique Funeral Practices in Different Countries

1. The Philippines’s Tree Caskets

In the Philippines, the comforting elegance and beauty of a tree can become the final resting place of a loved one. In some ethnic groups, families choose a particular tree in advance. After the family member passes, the tree is hollowed out to become a natural upright casket. This powerfully connects the departed to the earth, the sky, and to nature itself.

2. Ghana’s Personalized Caskets

In the West African country of Ghana, funeral services celebrate the earthly passions of the departed. To ensure a seamless transition to the afterlife, “fantasy caskets” are personalized to depict a loved one’s pastimes, values, and joys in life. Coffins can be elaborate and take months to craft, including carvings that show off everything from professional accomplishments to artistic endeavors.

3. Madagascar’s Turning of the Bones

In Madagascar, the Malagasy culture celebrates a ritual called "famadihana," or the turning of the bones. In observance, families exhume the remains of a loved one from their burial place every five to seven years. Friends and relatives commemorate and celebrate a reconnection with the departed through joyful dance, conversation, and music. Family news and blessings are shared with the deceased before the remains are returned to rest.

4. South Korea’s Burial Beads

South Korea has limited burial space. To meet the needs of grieving families both financially and emotionally, Korean funeral services often include cremation. Instead of interring ashes or scattering the remains, loved ones can request they be transformed into small, colorful beads. The festive remembrances can be brought home and kept with the family to be cherished for generations.

5. Japan’s Lit Buddhas

As another country with limited cemetery space, Japan also turns to cremation—sometimes with a high-tech twist. After a loved one passes, ashes can be placed in an elegant glass Buddha paired with a coded smart card. When mourners visit the temple, they’re guided to directly to their loved one’s remains by an ethereal glow from the departed’s personal statue.

Pre-arranging funeral services can feel daunting. Adzima Funeral Home in Stratford, CT, is dedicated to serving your needs with compassion. The caring professionals at this family-run establishment are available seven days a week to provide support for grieving families. To connect with a caring expert, call (203) 375-2200. You can also visit them online to explore their service offerings.