Many people may not understand why it’s necessary to pre-purchase a Buddha Columbarium or cemetery plot. In their view, it should be sufficient to choose a final resting place after a person has passed away—making advance arrangements seems unnecessary.

However, what they may not realize is that with China’s 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 resale of burial plots. This means that in the future, even having enough money may not guarantee you can acquire one. Hence, the value of planning ahead becomes clear.

1. Save Money: Earlier Means Cheaper

According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, by the end of 2019, China’s population aged 60 and above had 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 individuals aged 65 and above constituting over 14% of the population. In 2020, there were approximately 180 million people aged 65 or older—about 13% of the population. By the end of the 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, this number is expected to exceed 210 million, representing nearly 15% of the population. By 2035 and 2050, China’s elderly population (65+) is projected to reach 310 million and nearly 380 million, accounting for 22.3% and 27.9% of the total population, respectively.

If we define the elderly as those aged 60 and above, the numbers are even more striking—by 2050, China may have close to 500 million senior citizens.

With available land resources becoming increasingly limited, the demand for Columbarium niches and cemetery plots will likely exceed supply, inevitably driving prices higher.

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

Location is often associated with feng shui and traditional beliefs. While opinions vary on what constitutes an ideal spot, most cemeteries price higher locations at a premium—east-facing positions, plots near water, or spaces believed to bring prosperity and blessings to descendants. Some families even hire feng shui masters to help select the perfect site. As the saying goes, “A blessed land awaits a blessed person.” The earlier you purchase, the more likely you are to find an auspicious location that meets your wishes.

3. Simplify and Ease the Burden on Your Family

In traditional Chinese culture, arranging one’s afterlife in advance is seen as an act of responsibility—both toward oneself and toward future generations. This practice was especially common among historical figures and royalty, who often began searching for auspicious burial grounds early in life. By making arrangements within their means, they gained peace of mind and believed they would also protect and bless their descendants.

4. Symbolism of Blessings and Longevity

Selecting a Buddha Columbarium during one’s lifetime is considered an act of祈福 (praying for blessings) and 冲喜 (warding off bad luck through a joyful event). It is an age-old custom.

In the past, wealthy elderly individuals often chose and prepared their burial sites in advance. The vacant tomb would be marked with a tablet inscribed with the words “寿域” (longevity domain) painted in red, indicating that it was not yet occupied. After the person’s passing, the characters would be repainted in black.

In rural areas, it was common for families to prepare a coffin for an elderly member while they were still alive—a practice known as 做寿材 (making a longevity coffin), symbolizing the addition of happiness and years. The term 棺材 (coffin) sounds similar to 官财 (official wealth), embodying a wish for prosperity and promotion.

In modern urban areas, where cremation has become standard, this custom has gradually evolved into pre-purchasing a Buddha Columbarium or cemetery plot.

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