Japanese seniors turn down overnight family visits over cost and health

A 72‑year‑old Japanese woman living on a monthly pension of about ¥190,000 announced via family LINE that she will not host overnight stays for her children and grandchildren during the summer holidays. She cited the high expenses of bedding, food, utilities and outings that overwhelmed her last year’s "grandchild fatigue" and the resulting health collapse, opting to welcome only day‑trip visits.

A separate fictional manga story follows Chihiro, who after building her own home, faces an annual onslaught of in‑laws staying over the Obon holiday. She describes the preparation and constant presence of extended family as a burdensome, "hellish" experience, highlighting the stress and financial strain on households during large family gatherings.