#Japan #Tokyo #LDT #Yasashii Osoushiki #Funeral Costs

Understanding the Concerns Around Funeral Costs

In a recent survey conducted by LDT Inc., the operator of the online funeral consultation service "Yasashii Osoushiki," it was revealed that over 70% of individuals who have recently been involved in funerary matters feel anxious about the associated costs. This research was conducted from July 14 to July 20, 2025, targeting individuals aged 20 and above who had experience as a bereaved family member or as a funeral director.

The survey highlights significant concerns regarding funeral expenses, notably regarding unexpected charges and the distinction between necessary and unnecessary services. Approximately 34% of respondents indicated worries about additional fees and optional costs, while 27% struggled with differentiating between essential services and add-ons. Furthermore, 21% expressed concerns about the overall cost being too high. Alarmingly, more than half (52%) reported having exceeded their budget for funerals, and 38% acknowledged having paid additional fees that were not disclosed during initial consultations. This underscores a widespread issue that affects the overall trust in the funeral industry, pointing to an urgent need for transparency in pricing and detailed explanations of costs.

As families navigate the emotionally charged process of bidding farewell to loved ones, the aim should be to prioritize their mental well-being rather than getting bogged down by complex procedures. Yasashii Osoushiki stands out by offering straightforward package plans that emphasize clarity in pricing and a supportive 24/7 response system, enabling families to experience less psychological stress at such a difficult time.

Adding to its commitment to supporting first-time funeral planners, Yasashii Osoushiki plans to launch a "First-Time Funeral Planner's Guide" in the fall of 2025. This comprehensive guide aims to alleviate the worries of those who are unfamiliar with the funeral process and its requirements. The initiative seeks to redefine the funeral experience, transforming what has often been fraught with urgency into a period for reflection and meaningful remembrance.

Recent surveys conducted in May and June 2025 further illustrate the evolving perceptions surrounding funeral costs. Some highlights from these surveys include:

• - 34% of respondents indicated anxiety over supplementary costs.
• - 52% reported having previously received estimates from funeral service providers.
• - 38% confessed to paying unanticipated additional charges.
• - When asked about suitable pricing for funeral services, 66% of respondents believed that costs should range from 30,000 to 100,000 yen, depending on specific circumstances.

Customer Feedback
Multiple testimonials from respondents indicate a shared sentiment regarding the lack of clarity in funeral costs. Many expressed a desire for clearer breakdowns of service options. For instance, respondents highlighted that the vague explanations about additional charges caught them off guard and resulted in unexpected bills. Others suggested the necessity of more user-friendly estimates suitable for an elderly demographic.

Yuya Tada, the Head of Platform Business at LDT Inc., comments, "We recognize that the primary challenge in funeral services is the lack of transparency in costs. Many respondents have noted their confusion regarding how much is attributed to each aspect of the service, reinforcing the necessity for clear financial communication. Yasashii Osoushiki esteems transparency and understanding as essential elements in ensuring families make regrets-free decisions during their time of grief. Moving forward, we will strengthen our services to encompass a broader range of support, covering necessary administrative procedures, inheritance issues, and memorial services related to funerals, allowing families to honor their loved ones without hesitation or rush."

About LDT Inc.
LDT Inc. was established on September 20, 2019, and is headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo. The company specializes in AgeTech platforms and provides various funeral-related services such as online consultations, customer relationship management systems for funeral homes, and job placement services for funeral industry professionals. Their website provides comprehensive information about these offerings and aims to serve as a supportive resource for individuals preparing for life's essential transitions.