Next time you’re in Japan, specifically Tokyo, why not check out the Ruriden Mausoleum? This isn’t any old mausoleum, it uses high-powered LED lights to illuminate over 2,000 Buddha statues, which are made of glass called “ruriki” that emit different colors of light to create a dreamlike atmosphere for visiting families and friends. The Buddhas are controlled by computers, so they will glow gold for an ordinary visit or blue for a memorial service.
Also, visitors can type the name of the deceased into a computer, and the appropriate statue will glow a different color to guide them to the right location. Family members are given an IC security card so they can enter the facility off-hours. People can also reserve a vault while they are still alive. The price for a standard type is set at ¥750,000. If one is reserved, there is an annual management fee of ¥9,000 until, you know, death occurs. And you don’t just have to be from Japan to get yourself a glowing Buddha. The temple accepts reservations from anyone regardless of religion, sect or nationality.
