JapanValidity requirements for holographic will?
In Japan, a holographic will must be entirely handwritten, dated, and signed by the testator; no witnesses are required, but it must include a seal (hanko) to be valid.
What the Law Says
Japanese law sets strict formal requirements for holographic wills to ensure authenticity and prevent fraud.
Under Japanese law, a holographic will (shihitsu shōsho) is one of the three types of wills recognized under the Civil Code. It is the only type that does not require witnesses.
To be valid, the entire text—including the date and the testator’s name—must be written by hand by the testator. Typewritten or printed text invalidates the will.
The testator must affix their personal seal (hanko) immediately after the signature. A signature alone, without the seal, renders the will invalid.
The date must be clearly stated in year, month, and day. An incomplete or ambiguous date may cause the will to be rejected.
Statutory TextA holographic will shall be written entirely by the testator, dated, signed, and sealed by him/her.
— Civil Code of Japan, Art. 968, para. 1 — Holographic Will
What to Do
Write the full text of your will—including disposition of assets, date (year/month/day), and your full name—entirely by hand.
Sign your full name at the end.
Affix your registered personal seal (jitsuin) directly after your signature.
Store the will securely (e.g., at a Legal Affairs Bureau for deposit) to prevent loss or tampering.
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
Ireland
Singapore
India
South Korea
UK
US-California
US-New YorkNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.