The dead have played an important role in all countries and cultures on all continents. Although some cultures may honor their dead differently than others, the same reverence is paid to that last journey, everywhere. For most people, the hearse procession is not simply the process of burying the dead. Regardless of beliefs, people from different countries continue to respect this eternal custom.
Although the funeral procession seems to be a shared custom throughout the world, the hearses or hearses used vary greatly. And this is where cultural reflection comes in.
Most Americans, for example, like their hearses blacked out, with no windows. This classic hearse color in the West is traditionally associated with mourning. Additionally, most funeral cars in the United States and Canada use luxury car brands as their base, such as Cadillacs and Lincolns.
In the East, burial vehicles may be white or gold, and some may even be ornately decorated. As in the West, funeral car manufacturers in the East tend to use luxury car types as a base, with powerful engines.
On the other hand, Latino cultures seem to embrace death. They prefer open hearsees with side rails to hold on to while escorting loved ones to their burial site. This may not be all that surprising considering their celebrations such as the day of the dead.
In Japan, hearses can come in two styles: foreign style and Japanese style. Foreign type hearses are similar in style to American hearses. The Japanese-type hearse, on the other hand, has its rear end designed to resemble an ornate Buddhist temple. This usually requires the rear of the vehicle to be completely modified, where the rear roof and all interior parts are removed. The popular bases for funeral buses in Japan are not limited to large sedans. Hearse cars can also be minivans and pickup trucks from companies like Nissan and Toyota.
In Australia, people prefer hearses with large windows so they can see their deceased loved ones. This reflects his, perhaps, much-vaunted openness and stoicism in dealing with difficulties and grievances. In Europe, most funeral vehicles are based on commercial vans. In the past, they used to convert midsize vans into hearse cars. Today, Mercedes-Benz vans are quite common.
In recent times, funeral coaches continue to develop. In fact, motorcycle plus side hearses is becoming more popular these days. These types of hearses are often used for funeral processions for motorcycle enthusiasts.
But whatever the type of audience, each equally marks the inevitable event since the dawn of humanity: the last journey to the final resting place.