If your question is not here, just ask — that is what the form below is for.
Is sea burial legal in Japan?
Yes. Japan's Ministry of Justice has stated that scattering ashes is not illegal when done with respect and moderation, and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare published national guidelines in 2021. The key requirements: ashes must be ground to powder (under 2 mm), and scattering must take place away from shores, fishing grounds and busy sea lanes. As a member of the Japan Sea Scattering Association, we follow these guidelines on every ceremony.
Can foreigners arrange a sea burial in Japan?
Yes. There is no nationality requirement. We regularly assist families of former residents, international couples, and relatives living overseas. All arrangements can be made by email in English.
Can you perform the ceremony if we cannot travel to Japan?
Yes — this is our unattended (proxy) service, and it is the plan most requested by families overseas. Our staff perform the full ceremony with flowers and a moment of silence, and you receive the GPS certificate, photographs and, on request, video or a live stream.
How much does it cost?
Unattended sea burial is ¥54,450 (approx. US$370, limited-time price). Attending a group ceremony starts at ¥148,500, and a private charter at ¥176,000. Powdering of the ashes is included. Optional extras: video, live streaming, keepsake urns and jewellery, and international shipping. We confirm the total in a written quote before you commit, and payment options for your country as part of the quote.
Can I bring cremated ashes into Japan?
Generally yes. Cremated remains are not subject to Japan's animal or plant quarantine, and no import permit is required in typical cases. We strongly recommend carrying the death certificate and cremation certificate (in English) with the ashes, and using an urn or container that can pass through X-ray screening. Rules can change — we confirm the current requirements for your specific route as part of our free consultation.
Can ashes travel on a plane?
Most airlines allow cremated remains in carry-on baggage, and many publish specific instructions. Requirements differ by airline and route, so we advise checking with your carrier — tell us your route and we will help you prepare.
Can we ship the ashes to you instead?
If the ashes are already in Japan, yes — Japan Post's yu-pack service is the established way to send ashes domestically, and we provide step-by-step packing guidance. International mailing of ashes depends on the postal rules of your country and is often restricted; in most cases we recommend carrying the ashes to Japan, or consulting us about your specific country first.
What documents do you need?
For ashes cremated in Japan: the cremation permit (火葬許可証) or equivalent. For ashes from overseas: a copy of the death certificate and cremation certificate, plus a signed authorization form (we provide the template). We will list exactly what is needed for your case in our first reply.
Do the ashes have to be powdered?
Yes — powdering (funkotsu) is a firm rule for scattering in Japan. It is included in every plan, done by hand with care in our own facility, together with environmental-safety testing (hexavalent chromium check and neutralisation, our standard practice since 2019).
Can we keep part of the ashes?
Yes, and many families do. Before the ceremony we can set aside any amount you wish — for a keepsake urn at home, or a small quantity (about a grain of rice) sealed inside a memorial ring or pendant. Keepsakes can be shipped internationally.
Is the ceremony religious?
By default, no — the ceremony is a respectful, non-denominational farewell with flowers and silence. Buddhist, Christian or other religious elements can be arranged on request.
How long does it take?
Once the ashes and documents reach us, preparation takes about one week. Unattended ceremonies are then scheduled with the next suitable sailing; attended ceremonies are booked around your travel dates. Weather can shift dates — sailings are confirmed about two days ahead.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions prevent a safe sailing, the ceremony is rescheduled at no charge.
What languages do you support?
Email consultations in English, with replies within 2 business days. Phone support is currently in Japanese only. Video calls (Zoom/Google Meet) with translation support can be arranged for complex cases.
Who are you?
En Co., Ltd. (有限会社 縁) is a memorial services company founded in Kagoshima, with an office in Fukuoka. We were among the first to offer sea burial in Kagoshima and have performed more than 3,800 ceremonies. We hold a ★4.9 rating on Google and are a member of the Japan Sea Scattering Association. Head office: 7-7-3 Sakanoue, Kagoshima City, Japan.
