Ahuimanu Cemetery Expanding

Peace and tranquility in the afterlife may not be something most people plan for, but Valley of the Temples Memorial Park wants to make sure it’s an option.

Ocean View Terrace, a 10-acre project due for completion in the winter of 2014, will include thousands of burial options ranging from private hedged estates with ocean views to a lava-rock wall cremation garden and an acre-sized Japanese shrine garden.

The terrace is designed for Hawaii’s diverse customers: Lots are priced for lower budgets as well as for those who want a custom-built resting place. Asian influences, including the shrine garden and feng shui elements, have been integrated into the grounds.

Located since 1963 in Ahuimanu valley up against the Koolau range, Valley of the Temples was purchased by NorthStar Memorial Group in 2011. It is best known for its Byodo-in Temple, which replicates an ancient Buddhist temple complex in Uji, Japan.

NorthStar’s Sharmaine Mayo noted that the independent funeral, cremation and memorialization service company “will continue to honor the valued relationships of the past.”

For more information or other inquiries about the cemetery, visit valley-of-the-temples.com or call 239-8811.