The Japanese Views of Death and Life and Human Remains

Abstract

In general, views of death and life or human remains differ depending on religions, cultures or countries. The Japanese perception of life and death is also unique. Hence, if Japanese are involved in disasters or accidents, and lose their lives abroad, these differences in views might lead to diplomatic issues or international conflicts. There were some cases that caused international problems in the past. For example, Ehime-maru incident which occurred offshore Hawaii in 2001, and Christchurch earthquake in New Zealand in 2011. The aim of this report is to make the Japanese views and thoughts on death and life, and human remains known worldwide and understood internationally.