Many people may not understand why it is necessary to pre-book a Buddha Columbarium or purchase a cemetery plot in advance. In their view, selecting a final resting place can be done after a person passes away—they see little value in making arrangements earlier.

However, what they may not realize is that with China’s rapidly aging population and increasingly scarce land resources, cemetery prices have soared. It’s no longer as simple as deciding to buy whenever you wish. In some regions, restrictions have already been placed on the purchase and transfer of burial plots. This means that in the future, even if you have the money, you may not be able to acquire one. This is where the value of pre-booking a Buddha Columbarium or cemetery plot becomes clear.

1. Save Money: The Sooner, The Better

According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, by the end of 2019, the population aged 60 and above in China reached 254 million, accounting for 18.1% of the total population. Those aged 65 and above numbered 176 million, making up 12.6% of the population.

Reports predict that around 2022, China will transition from an aging society to an aged society, with people aged 65 and above constituting more than 14% of the population. In 2020, there were approximately 180 million seniors aged 65 and above, representing about 13% of the population. By the end of the 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, this number is expected to exceed 210 million, or nearly 15% of the population. By 2035 and 2050, China’s population aged 65 and above is projected to reach 310 million and nearly 380 million, accounting for 22.3% and 27.9% of the total population, respectively.

If the standard for defining the elderly is set at 60 years and above, China’s elderly population will be even larger—approaching 500 million by 2050.

As available land resources become increasingly scarce, the demand for Buddha Columbarium niches and cemetery plots will exceed supply. This will inevitably drive prices higher.

2. Secure a Better Location: Early Booking, Better Choice

The importance of location is often related to feng shui and traditional customs. While opinions may vary on what constitutes the “best” spot, most cemeteries price higher locations at a premium—east-facing positions, spots near water, and areas believed to bring prosperity and blessings to descendants are among the most sought after. Some people even hire feng shui masters to help select an ideal site using a compass. As the saying goes, “A blessed land awaits a blessed person.” The earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure an auspicious location that meets your expectations.

3. Peace of Mind: Easing the Burden on Your Children

In traditional belief, arranging one’s afterlife while still living is not only a responsibility to oneself but also to one’s descendants. This is why many individuals, especially those of high status in ancient times, began searching for favorable burial grounds early in life. By making arrangements in advance, they gained peace of mind and ensured that their descendants would be protected and blessed.

4. Adding Blessings and Longevity

Selecting a Buddha Columbarium niche for someone still alive is considered an act of blessing—a way to bring joy and positive energy. This is a long-standing custom.

In the past, wealthy elderly people often chose and prepared their burial sites during their lifetime. They would place pairs of “longevity bricks,” teapots, and oil bottles (known as “longevity oil”) inside. The tombstone was inscribed with the words “Longevity Domain” painted in red to indicate that it was still vacant. After the burial, the characters would be repainted in black.

In rural areas, it was common for families to prepare a coffin for an elderly member in advance, symbolizing the addition of fortune and longevity. The coffin, or “寿材” (shòucái) in Chinese, is homophonic with the words for “official promotion” and “wealth”—hence the belief that it brings prosperity and success.

Nowadays, with the prevalence of cremation in cities, this custom has gradually evolved into pre-booking a Buddha Columbarium niche or cemetery plot.

Company: HuaHeng Columbarium Factory Jiangxi, China
Author: Sales Manager: Mr. Luo