Japan is considering significant downsizing of the funeral ceremony for the former Emperor, a reflection of changing times and financial constraints. The decision, while not final, comes amid a larger discussion about costly imperial rituals in a struggling economy. The government is now working on finding a balance between maintaining tradition while responding to a changing societal context.

Still in the midst of economic recovery, Japan is scrutinizing its traditional practices, including those related to the Imperial family, for cost efficiency. The changing perception towards the Imperial family has been a point of social debate. While some see the austerity measures as necessary, others view them as disrespectful to the longstanding traditions and history of the Imperial lineage.

In the US or the EU, resizing of state funerals would cause a similar stir. The balance between the respect for tradition and public spending is a topic of scrutiny in many developed countries. However, unlike Japan, in many Western countries, financing such occasions does not typically come directly from taxpayer funds.