Space shortage is a perennial problem in Hong Kong. Most people work hard all their lives so as to save enough money to pay for the small flats they live in. Ownership of one's accommodation apparently offers a strong sense of security and satisfaction in this city.
Likewise, most elderly people prefer a proper burial in a permanent grave where their family members can visit them, normally during the Ching Ming Festival in spring and the Chung Yeung Festival in autumn.
A permanent grave, however, is a luxury which few can afford. It now costs at least HK$240,000 and this is only the land price. Cheaper grave-sites are available across the border where prices often depend on their accessibility.
In view of the rising prosperity in the Pearl River Delta, burial sites near urban centres are increasingly difficult to come by.
Two or three decades ago some people became Christians on their death-beds, mainly with the intention of securing a cheap permanent burial site. Churches today can no longer offer such services.
Government-run cemeteries offer grave-sites to the public at more reasonable prices, normally about HK$40,000. But they are not permanent, and the remains have to be removed after 10 years.
