#Japan #Tokyo #Shinking Night #Sanwa Bussan #Well-dying

Death and Life: A New Dialogue at Shinking Night

On June 24, 2026, at 7 PM, an extraordinary event titled "Shinking Night vol.3" will take place in Shibuya, Tokyo, organized by Sanwa Bussan Co., Ltd., a renowned funeral supplies manufacturer based in Kanazawa, Japan. This innovative gathering will encourage students and working professionals alike to engage in candid discussions about the often-taboo topic of death while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere.

Japan is facing a phenomenon referred to as a "super-aging society," with the number of annual deaths steadily increasing; it's projected to peak around 2040. This reality emphasizes the need for communities to confront mortality but simultaneously highlights the psychological barriers individuals face when addressing death. Sanwa Bussan has witnessed countless experiences of loss and believes these encounters prompt meaningful reflections on life. Consequently, they initiated Shinking Night as a platform to foster discussions about death and inspire a constructive approach to living.

Shinking Night is a clever blend of the words "death" and "thinking," aimed at facilitating meaningful conversations across various age groups and backgrounds over a drink. Previous events in Kanazawa have drawn over 100 participants, showcasing a growing interest in this unique dialogue about mortality.

This third installment marks the first time Shinking Night will be hosted in Tokyo. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of thought-provoking activities, beginning with an 'Inside the Coffin Experience,' allowing participants to interact with the physical aspects of death in a way that encourages introspection about their life choices. Additionally, the 'Shinking 16 Types' activity will enable attendees to assess their attitudes towards death and what truly matters to them.

A highlight of the event includes an interactive project called 'Candle of Life,' created by students from Kyoto University of the Arts. Utilizing a digital app, participants will engage in discussions surrounding mortality, ultimately extending the length of their digital candles as they share perspectives. This unique experience underscores the importance of time and encourages participants to acknowledge their life journeys and choices in a communal setting.

The event will also feature a special guest, Dr. Shotaro Michishita of Afroed Clinic, renowned for promoting the concept of 'Well-dying.' He will lead an opening talk to provide insights into better living through acceptance of death and the value of life.

Shinking Night: A Platform for Reflection and Growth

Shinking Night serves as a rare opportunity to explore the complexities surrounding loss and mortality. While death remains a sensitive subject in Japan, discussions like these can transform our perspectives. By providing a space to think about our own mortality, Shinking Night encourages individuals to discover meaningful insights about how they wish to live.

Event Details:

• - Date & Time: June 24, 2026, from 7 PM to 9 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
• - Location: TOKYO CULTURE CULTURE, 4th Floor, Cocoti Shibuya, 1-23-16 Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Access: Directly in front of Exit B1 of Shibuya Station
• - Participation Fee: ¥3,000 (includes light snacks and drinks)
• - Capacity: 100 participants, first-come-first-served
• - Target Audience: University students and working adults
• - Ticket Purchase: Event Ticketing Link

Engaging Activities at Shinking Night

1. Shinking 16 Types: A diagnostic tool that helps participants assess their views on death and life, revealing what they value most.
2. Candle of Life: An interactive discussion-based experience that lets participants explore their lifespan while engaging with others on death-related themes.
3. Inside the Coffin Experience: Participants can enter a specially designed coffin to reflect on their life and thoughts about mortality.
4. Special Guest: Dr. Shotaro Michishita will share insights in his opening talk, guiding the audience in understanding the intersection of life and death.

As death becomes more integrated into public consciousness, events like Shinking Night hold the potential to reshape societal views and foster a better understanding of life’s fragility.