ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mizuko kuyo

Mizuko Kuyo is a special ceremony that is held in Japan for unborn or stillborn babies. Sometimes, babies do not get the chance to be born or they pass away before they have a chance to live outside of the womb. This can be very sad for the parents and their families.

So, the Mizuko Kuyo ceremony is a way for the parents and the community to honor and remember these babies. Mizuko means "water babies" and kuyo means "a memorial ceremony". Mizuko Kuyo is typically led by a Buddhist priest, who recites prayers and chants to help guide the babies' souls to a better place. Parents and others who attend the ceremony will bring small gifts, like toys or flowers, to offer at the altar.

Sometimes, the ceremony can be emotional and may involve crying or other expressions of grief or sadness. However, it is also meant to be a time for healing and releasing the pain associated with the loss of a baby. By participating in Mizuko Kuyo, families can find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their grief and that their community supports them.