Nokotsudo (Columbarium)

The Muryo Koju-Do columbarium was dedicated as a part of the L.A. Betsuin's centennial expansion project in 2005. This columbarium is designed as a permanent repository for over 3,000 sets of cremated remains in a convenient location in Little Tokyo. This columbarium is for the use of the temple members to place urns of family members and follow the religious practices and traditions of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha. Here, the temple minister observes a service every day. During office hours, visitors can freely visit there to honor their loved ones. 

Toward obtaining a niche, an example steps are as follows.

1. (Option) Visit Nishi to see the actual space
2. Make an appointment for a meeting with a representative of the Nokotsudo Committee
3. Process documental process along with completing application formats & Agreement
4. Schedule an inurnment service with a temple minister

• How can my loved ones or I be placed in the Nokotsudo?
  You need to obtain a right of inurement from the L.A. Betsuin.
• What is a right of inurment and how do I get one?
  A right of inurnment gives you permission to place yours or your loved one's cremated remains into a niche in the Nokotsudo. You can obtain a right of inurnment if you are a member in good standing of the L.A. Nishi.
• Who owns the niche?
  The niche will always be the property of the L.A. Betsuin. You are allowed to use the niche.
• Can I modify the niche?
  No. Modification is not allowed.
• How many urns can be placed in the niche?
  The number of remains that can be placed in the niche depends on the size of the urns. Two urns can be placed in a niche if the commended size is used. 
• When will the Nokotsudo be open for visitation?
  Visitation will be limited to the business hours. Business hours can be changed without notice. 
• Can I make an offering or burn incense?
  Offerings and incense can be made at a designated location in front of the Butsudan (altar).
• Who can remove the remains?
  Only a person with the right of succession can remove the remains. In the simplest situation, the right of succession will be in the following order: Spouse, Son/Daughter, Brother/Sister. Grandchildren do not have a right of succession. A court order must be obtained prior to the removal of the remains.
• How do I display the Homyo Card?
  The Homyo (Buddhist Name) card, provided by the L.A. Betsuin, must be prominently displayed in front of the urn. In lieu of the card, the Homyo can be engraved on the urn. 

If you have any questions, please contact us at (213) 680-9130 or info@nishihongwanji-la.org