Purpose of the rites
Honouring a life and guiding the farewell.
Chinese funeral rites can express respect, gratitude and continuing family bonds. Religious rites may also pray for peace, remove spiritual obstacles, seek forgiveness or guide the person who has died on the next stage of the journey.
The purpose and form of each rite will be explained before the family decides whether to include it.
Prayer and scripture
Taoist and Buddhist observances.
Taoist rites may include scripture, invocations, purification, formal petitions and offerings. Buddhist rites may include sutra chanting, remembrance, repentance, dedication of merit and prayers for a peaceful passage.
Some families combine traditions. Hinzen’s ministers will advise according to the family’s beliefs rather than assuming one standard format.
- Taoist scripture and prayers
- Buddhist chanting and blessings
- Inviting deities and spiritual witnesses
- Dedication of merit
- Prayers for peace and guidance
Offerings and symbols
Every item has a purpose.
Incense, candles, tea, fruit, food, flowers and ceremonial paper items may be presented during Chinese funeral rites. Their use depends on family custom, religious guidance and what the venue safely permits.
Ministers explain what is required, while Everlay coordinates the venue, timings and practical arrangements.
Coffin and departure rites
Preparing for the final journey.
Rites may take place when the coffin is prepared or closed, before departure from the ceremony venue and on arrival at the cemetery or crematorium. They can include cleansing, final offerings, prayers, bowing and guidance for family participation.
- Purification and cleansing
- Coffin-closing rites
- Final family farewell
- Funeral procession prayers
- Burial or cremation committal rites
The family’s role
Participation with clear guidance.
Family members may be invited to bow, offer incense, present tea, follow chanting or join the procession. The ministers explain each step, and participation can be adapted for age, mobility, faith or personal comfort.
Guests should follow the family’s instructions and avoid assuming that every Chinese funeral uses the same rites.
Planning the ceremony
Rites and funeral arrangements together.
A focused ceremony may last a few hours, while a more extensive observance may continue over one or more days. The programme, ministers, ritual items, venue requirements and costs will be explained before confirmation.
Coordinating everything through Everlay and Hinzen helps the spiritual rites, transport, venue, procession and burial or cremation work together smoothly.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers,
without assumptions.
Are Chinese funeral rites always religious?+
No. Some are religious, while others are family, cultural or regional customs. Each family chooses what is appropriate.
Are Taoist and Buddhist funeral rites the same?+
No. They have different teachings and ceremonial forms, although some families may include elements of both traditions.
How long do Chinese funeral rites last?+
A focused ceremony may last a few hours; a fuller programme may continue for one or more days.
Can rites take place before a cremation?+
Yes. Chinese funeral rites can be coordinated with either burial or cremation.
Do family members have to participate in every rite?+
No. Ministers explain the options, and participation can be adapted to the family’s wishes and circumstances.
When you are ready
Begin with a
calm conversation.
You do not need to understand every tradition or have every detail decided. Tell us about your family, where the funeral will take place and what matters to you. Everlay and Hinzen will explain the options and coordinate the arrangements with care.
For requests outside the London region, additional travel and accommodation costs may apply. Please contact us for a tailored quotation.
Speak to the Everlay team →