Bridging Tradition and Contemporary Aesthetic: How Packaging Design Shapes Perception and Value of Buddhist Supplies

Abstract

This research explores how packaging design influences perceptions of sacred value, acceptance of sustainability, and purchase intention in the context of Buddhist offerings. The study had three main objectives: (1) to investigate how packaging designs inspired by sacred architectural motifs influence consumers’ perception of ritual and spiritual value, (2) to explore consumer expectations for simplicity, aesthetics, and sustainability in Buddhist packaging, and (3) to propose packaging design guidelines that integrate cultural traditions with contemporary consumer needs. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining an online survey (n = 61), semi-structured interviews (n = 15), and prototype evaluations of redesigned eco-friendly packaging sets. Participants included monks, benefactors, and general consumers, selected using purposive sampling. Findings indicate that packaging featuring sacred architectural elements enhances perceived authenticity and ritual connection. Verified survey results show that 85.2% of respondents valued temple-inspired symbolism, 60.7% preferred minimalist aesthetics, and 75.4% supported the use of eco-friendly materials, while monks and benefactors highlighted the need for compact, stackable packaging (67.2%). NVivo-assisted thematic analysis identified four dominant themes: sacred symbolism, minimalist aesthetics, eco-sustainability, and functional usability. Based on these insights, this study proposes practical packaging guidelines that preserve Buddhist traditions while addressing modern expectations for design and sustainability.