Conversation so far:
When and where was Departures filmed?
Some preliminary scenes of snowy landscapes were shot in 2007, and primary filming began in April 2008, lasting 40 days.
Are there any other interesting aspects about this article?
Despite the importance of death rituals, in traditional Japanese culture the subject is considered unclean as everything related to death is thought to be a source of kegare (defilement).
What was unusual about the filming and post-production?
To provide realistic bodies while preventing the corpses from moving, after a lengthy casting process the crew chose extras who could lie as still as possible.
What did the actors and crew say about the movie?
CANNOTANSWER.
Are there any other interesting aspects about this article?
Motoki studied the art of encoffinment first-hand from a mortician, and assisted in an encoffining ceremony.
What other preparation did the actors do?
Motoki also learned how to play a cello for the earlier parts of the film.

Question: What other aspects of death and funerals were important for preparation?
Self-contained rewrite: What other aspects of death and funerals were important for preparation for Departures other than learning encoffinment?