Japan's First Association for Lifelong Support Businesses to Hold Online Meeting in August 2026

fundamental support services means that it will take more than governmental guidelines from June 2024 for citizens to feel secure choosing an appropriate provider. The association established by seven passionate businesses with extensive field experience in August 2025, named Zen-Syukyo, aims to advance healthy industry development. The association has implemented the first quality business certification system, which requires member businesses to meet specific guidelines alongside the nation’s regulations, ensuring external validation through expert evaluation. This aim is to foster an environment in which users can confidently choose service providers.

Overview of Zen-Syukyo

- Organization Name: Japan Lifelong Support Business Association (Zen-Syukyo)
- Chairperson: Fumino Kurosawa (OAG Wellbeing R)
- Directors: Hiroshi Yamashita (Kenshin Kai), Fumiaki Nishiki (Life Ending Stage Asahi), Noriyuki Aoki (Shinrai no Kai), Yasushi Kuroda (Ikigai Life Association), Yuki Shimizu (Akari Hoshou), and Yasuhiro Takahashi (Kokoro no Company).
- Auditor: Masanori Tanabe (Member of the Management Committee of Norinchukin Bank, Advisor at SOMPO Care, Review Board Member at the International Financial Information Center)

Key Activities

1. Establishing regulations for businesses engaged in lifelong support services in line with the associated guidelines and certifying their compliance.
2. Promoting sound operation practices among affiliated businesses.
3. Member screening, registration, and management.
4. Collaborating with relevant organizations across healthcare, welfare, finance, real estate, and funeral services.
5. Advocating for social issues and influencing public policy through partnerships with governmental agencies.
6. Supporting the transition of responsibilities among member businesses.
7. Facilitating healthy bequest donations while overseeing their management and operation.