Many people may wonder: Why should one pre-book a Buddha Columbarium or purchase a cemetery plot in advance? To some, it seems more practical to make such arrangements only after a person has passed away, as they see little value in planning ahead.

However, what they may not realize is that with China’s rapidly aging population and increasingly scarce land resources, cemetery prices have skyrocketed. In some regions, it’s no longer simply a matter of wanting to buy—it’s becoming difficult to acquire burial land at all. Certain areas have already started imposing restrictions on the purchase and resale of gravesites. This means that in the near future, even having sufficient money may not guarantee you a burial plot. This is where the value of pre-booking a Buddha Columbarium or cemetery plot becomes clear.

1. Cost Savings: Earlier Means Cheaper

According to data released by 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 people aged 65 and above accounting for more than 14% of the total population. In 2020, there were approximately 180 million seniors 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, or nearly 15% of the population. By 2035 and 2050, China’s elderly population (65+) is projected to reach 310 million and nearly 380 million, representing 22.3% and 27.9% of the total population, respectively.

If we define the elderly as those aged 60 and above, China’s aging demographic is even more striking—by 2050, there will be nearly 500 million senior citizens.

With available land resources becoming increasingly limited, the demand for Buddha Columbarium niches and cemetery plots is expected to exceed supply. This will inevitably drive prices higher.

2. Better Location Options: Early Booking, Better Choice

The importance of location is often tied to feng shui and traditional beliefs. While opinions vary on what makes a spot “ideal,” most cemeteries charge more for higher locations and those considered to have better feng shui—such as eastern-facing plots, positions near water, or spaces believed to bring prosperity and blessings to descendants. Some families even hire feng shui masters to help select the perfect spot with 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.

3. Convenience: Reducing the Burden on Your Children

In traditional Chinese culture, arranging one’s afterlife matters in advance is seen not only as a personal responsibility but also as a way to protect and show consideration for future generations. This is why many individuals, especially those of high social status throughout history, began searching for burial sites 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. Adding Blessings and Longevity

Selecting a Buddha Columbarium niche during one’s lifetime is considered an act of祈福 (praying for blessings). It is a custom thought to bring joy and positive energy to the living.

In the past, it was common for wealthy elderly people to choose a burial site in advance—a practice known as 做寿域 (creating longevity space). The site would be prepared with pairs of “longevity bricks,” teapots, and oil bottles (called “longevity oil”). The tombstone was inscribed with the words “寿域” (longevity domain) painted in red to indicate it was still vacant. After the person was buried, the characters would be repainted in black.

In rural areas, it was customary for families with elderly members to prepare a coffin in advance, known as 寿材 (longevity timber), symbolizing the addition of fortune and longevity. The common term for coffin, 棺材 (guāncai), is a homophone for “official promotion and wealth,” making it an auspicious symbol.

In modern cities, where cremation is more common, this tradition has gradually shifted toward pre-booking a Buddha Columbarium niche or cemetery plot.

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