Upcoming events
Japanese Studies Program
MINI LECTURE SERIES「CLOSE-UP JAPAN」
Lecture #12: Changing Family Dynamics in Modern Japan – Through the Lens of the “Tree Burial” –
EXPLORING FAMILY VALUES THROUGH THE STUDY OF “GRAVE SITES”
On November 24th, The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam proudly presents a lecture titled “Changing Family Dynamics in Modern Japan – Through the Lens of the ‘Tree Burial’-” by Doctor Nguyen Thi Hoai Chau, vice dean of Faculty of Japanese Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City. This is the 12th lecture of the mini-lecture series “Close-up Japan”.
The mini-lecture series “Close-up Japan” which began in 2020, has shared research findings from numerous Vietnamese scholars on Japanese culture, society, literature, and so on with the Vietnamese public. This series aims to deepen the Vietnamese understanding of Japan and promote Japanese studies in Vietnam.
In this 12th lecture, we are pleased to introduce a study on the changing of family values through the perspective of “tree burial”- a unique concept that may initially seem unfamiliar but is quite relevant to various aspects such as family, religion, and nature. In celebration of Family Day (November 17th), we hope this lecture will help attendees to reflect more deeply on the role of family.
Traditionally, family unity and lineage continuity have been deeply ingrained in Japan and other Asian countries. Therefore, the “family grave” (ie-haka) – a shared space for ancestral worship within the traditional patriarchal family structure, has long been important in burial practices. However, in the context of the aging population, changes in family values, and evolving religious views, the concept of “tree burial” where ashes are interred beneath a tree, has emerged and is gaining attention in Japan.
What changes in the traditional values of Japanese families and society have led to the growing interest in tree burial? On the other hand, what benefits and challenges might the growing of tree burial bring to families and society in Japan and beyond? Through the lecture on the characteristics, reception, and implementation of tree burial, Dr. Châu will provide attendees with a fresh perspective on family and societal concepts, thereby addressing the questions above.
Relating this to Vietnam, this topic holds significance within the context of an aging population and the rise of cremation practices. The lecturer hopes to contribute by systematically providing knowledge on the changing in family structure and perceptions through shifts in burial practices and future ancestor worship customs.
■ EVENT INFORMATION
■ ABOUT LECTURER _ 
Dr. Nguyễn Thị Hoài Châu
Born in Ho Chi Minh City, Dr. Nguyễn Thị Hoài Châu is currently the vice dean of Faculty of Japanese Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City.
She received her Master’s degree in 2010 and Doctorate in 2015 from the Graduate School of Human Sciences, Okayama University, Japan. Her research focuses on the fields of Culture and Social Sciences, Cultural anthropology, Burial culture, Family culture.
Dr. Châu’s research direction is unique and represents a minority perspective among studies on Japan. Especially, through her research on family graves, she has provided valuable insights into family, societal, and elder perspectives which are significant topics both for the present and the future.
Some of her notable research papers and academic articles include: “Study about the ancestor worship in Vietnam -The study case of Ho Chi Minh city-” (2016), “Studying about ‘Tree burial’ – a treatment of cremation ash in Japan” (2019), “Studying about Japanese family grave ‘ie haka’ today – Through the fieldwork research about Japanese family grave ‘ie haka’ in big cities of Japan” (2020), “Ancestor Worship in Contemporary Vietnam: A Study of Filial Piety” The International Journal of Religion and Spirituality in Society (2024),…
■ CREDIT
Organized by The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam
■ CONTACTS
Ms. Ánh (083-369-1818) / Mr. Osuka
The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam
27 Quang Trung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
TEL: 024-3944-7419
