#Japan #cremation #Kagoshima #Family Bonds #Modern Rituals

Introduction to the Survey

A recent survey conducted by En (a company specializing in oceanic and powdered remains support, based in Kagoshima) and 366 (a firm focused on temple support and tree burials, based in Tokyo) revealed significant shifts in the perceptions regarding cremation and the handling of ashes. The survey, conducted on January 21, 2026, targeted 600 individuals aged between 40 and 70 and aimed at understanding their thoughts about cremation and future burial practices.

Survey Overview

The premise of this survey was to gauge attitudes towards cremation and memorial practices, particularly focusing on individuals of the 'involved generation' aged 40-70. It reflects the societal shift away from traditional burial practices amidst increasing urbanization and changing family dynamics. Notably, the study found that less than 20% of respondents opposed the idea of their own cremation or that of family members, signaling a growing acceptance of the practice.

Key Findings

1. Acceptance of Ashes: A Complicated Picture

The results show that while over 80% of participants accepted cremation, a psychological divide exists when it comes to their own ashes versus those of family members. For individuals surveyed:

• - About 40.5% supported their own cremation with no resistance.
• - In contrast, only 27.7% felt the same about the cremation of their family members.

This discrepancy suggests that while individuals are open to modern practices for themselves, deep emotional attachments can lead to reluctance regarding family traditions. Many expressed a desire to maintain the physical form of their loved ones rather than convert them to ashes, suggesting that love and affection still play pivotal roles in these decisions.

2. Resistance Based on Memorial Preferences

Interestingly, the survey also examined responses based on preferred memorial styles. Regardless of whether respondents favored modern methods such as ocean or tree burials or traditional stone tombs:

• - Over 80% of those leaning towards natural burials were open to cremation, emphasizing its acceptance in more progressive memorial practices.
• - However, even among traditionalists who prefer stone graves, more than 50% accepted cremation, illustrating its growing acceptance across various belief systems.

Participants generally showed a greater willingness towards cremation for themselves than for family members, though the overall trend indicated a significant acceptance rate of cremation as a legitimate choice in the contemporary ritual landscape.

3. Summary: The Path Forward

The survey results reveal a compelling landscape of acceptance around cremation, while simultaneously exposing the emotional barriers that still exist concerning family ashes. With over 80% of respondents indicating an understanding of and willingness to embrace cremation, the vision of memorial practices is shifting. People seem to prioritize efficiency and practicality when it comes to their own remains, but emotional connections continue to dominate when it comes to family.

In an era where traditional burial practices are becoming increasingly difficult due to smaller families and urban living, cremation has emerged as more than just a procedural requirement of modern natural burials. It represents a harmonious blend of family heritage and an adaptation to the contemporary lifestyle. Future developments in memorial services will need to encompass not only the physical aspects of cremation but also provide psychological and emotional support for families, ensuring they can cope with the transition in a heartfelt manner.

Company Background

En LLC

• - Representative: Yukari Tsutsumi
• - Location: 7-7-3 Sakanoue, Kagoshima, Japan
• - Services: Cremation, natural burials, educational seminars on end-of-life planning, and digital memorial system development.
• - Website: en1150.co.jp

366 Inc.

• - Representative: Teruo Ito
• - Location: 3-23-10 Toranomon, Tokyo, Japan
• - Services: Development of tree burials and columbariums, corporate advisory services for religious organizations, and system development for the digital transformation.
• - Website: 366.today