Maudric
← Life in Japan
L25

Death and funerals

What to say and do when someone dies: hearing the news, the wake and the funeral, condolence money and gifts, how to behave, mourning cards and letters, and the memorials that follow. Each lesson starts with a short guide to the customs.

Free to use. If these lessons help you, you can support new lessons on Patreon.

This course opens on 8 February 2027.

  1. L2501Hearing the newsFrom 8 February 2027Being told someone has died, and what to say.
  2. L2502The wake and the funeralFrom 8 February 2027Wakes, funerals, the chief mourner and the funeral hall.
  3. L2503Condolence money and giftsFrom 8 February 2027Kōden envelopes, what to write, how much, flowers and return gifts.
  4. L2504What to wear and what to doFrom 8 February 2027Mourning clothes, offering incense, prayer beads and words to avoid.
  5. L2505Cards and lettersFrom 8 February 2027Mourning postcards instead of New Year cards, and writing a condolence letter.
  6. L2506Memorials and rememberingFrom 8 February 2027The 49th day, memorial services, the family altar and visiting the grave.
  7. L2507Supporting someoneFrom 8 February 2027Talking with someone who is grieving, and offering help.
  8. L2508ReviewFrom 8 February 2027A mixed walking drill.