buddha altar

(butsudan)

Often found in Japanese homes, the butsudan takes the form of a cabinet, which contains a Buddhist image and tablets inscribed with the posthumous names of ancestors. Offerings of food are made in the morning when the cabinet is opened, and small gongs may be rung. Prayers are chanted, and people may also have conversations with the spirits of the deceased.

gilt and lacquer new butsudan

apartment-sized

butsudan

traditional room with butsudan

pet butsudan

modern butsudan