[Event Report] Free End-of-Life Planning Seminar Held at Noda Hotaru Rose Garden. 31 Participants Learned About Grave Relocation, Solo Living Preparations, and Adult Guardianship. [Zenpo Koenfun Co., Ltd.]

Zenpo Koenfun Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Tsuneyasu Takeda; hereinafter 'the Company'), which revives Japan's unique 'Kofun culture' for the modern era, held a free end-of-life planning seminar titled 'End-of-Life Planning Masterclass' at Shoei-ji Temple within the Noda Hotaru Rose Garden in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The event saw 31 participants who learned about everything from the basics of end-of-life planning to practical preparations across three themes.

Event Overview: 31 People Gather at Shoei-ji Temple Amidst Early Summer Roses
The seminar was held at Shoei-ji Temple, located within the Noda Hotaru Rose Garden. 31 people, primarily registered users of 'Kofun no Madoguchi,' gathered in the temple grounds during the early summer rose season. Both those who have already purchased a Takeda-style Kofun grave and those considering one enjoyed the seminar in a peaceful atmosphere.

The lecturer was Mr. Yagabe from the Company's Legal and Customer Department, who carefully explained three major themes related to end-of-life planning with concrete examples.

Theme 1: 'Grave Relocation and Memorial Services' — Thinking Positively About Grave Relocation
The first theme addressed the rapidly increasing trend of 'grave relocation' (haka-jimai). According to Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare statistics, there are 176,000 grave relocations annually in Japan, making it a significant social issue. The Company frames grave relocation not as the 'end' of a grave, but as a 'move,' ensuring that memorial services for the deceased continue seamlessly. We explained the procedures, cost estimates, and administrative notification methods to alleviate concerns that the process is 'too difficult.' The 'Takeda-style Kofun Grave,' which includes perpetual memorial services, is available nationwide as a destination for such relocations.

Theme 2: 'End-of-Life Planning for Solo Individuals' — Preparing for the Inevitable
The second theme focused on 'end-of-life planning for solo individuals.' Regardless of whether one lives alone or has no children, the reality is that even in a couple, one person will eventually pass away first. We emphasized the necessity of planning from the perspective that 'one will eventually be alone.' Specifically, we explained post-mortem administrative delegation contracts (contracts delegating funeral and other procedures to a third party) and how to organize emergency contacts and assets. By deciding in advance 'who will do what after I pass away,' one can minimize the burden on family members and live with peace of mind.

Theme 3: 'Adult Guardianship System' — The Recommendation of 'Voluntary Guardianship'
The third theme provided an easy-to-understand explanation of the 'Adult Guardianship System.' While it is a system to protect assets when judgment capacity declines due to dementia or illness, many were unaware of the difference between 'statutory guardianship' and 'voluntary guardianship.' We highlighted the importance of 'voluntary guardianship,' which allows individuals to choose their own guardian while they are still healthy. Unlike statutory guardianship, where the family court selects the guardian, voluntary guardianship allows for asset management and personal protection as desired by the individual through contracts with trusted professionals.

Free Distribution: Original 'End-of-Life Planning Handbook'
All participants received the Company's original booklet, the 'End-of-Life Planning Handbook,' for free. This booklet summarizes necessary information, from basic knowledge to actual procedures, cost estimates, and how to consult with experts, in an easy-to-understand format with diagrams and checklists.

Participant Survey Results
The post-seminar survey received very positive feedback. Over 90% of participants found the content 'easy to understand,' and about 83% expressed a desire to attend future seminars.

Notice of Local Briefing by CEO Tsuneyasu Takeda
A local briefing session will be held at the Noda Hotaru Rose Garden Kofun Grave on Saturday, June 13. CEO Tsuneyasu Takeda, who handled everything from concept to development, will explain the details and appeal of the Kofun graves. We welcome those looking for perpetual memorial services, tree burials, or those interested in Kofun graves to join us.