JapanWhat types of wills exist?
Japan recognizes three main types of wills: notarized wills (most common and secure), holographic wills (handwritten and signed), and sealed wills (submitted to a notary in a sealed envelope).
What the Law Says
Japanese law defines the formal requirements for valid wills under the Civil Code. Only three forms are legally recognized, each with strict procedural and documentary conditions.
A notarized will (kōshō shōsho) is executed before a notary public and two witnesses. It is the most reliable form because it is recorded and preserved at the notary office, and cannot be lost or tampered with.
A holographic will (shinseki shōsho) must be entirely handwritten, dated, and signed by the testator. No witnesses are required, but it must comply precisely with Article 968 — any typewritten portion or external signature invalidates it.
A sealed will (fūtō shōsho) is prepared by the testator, placed in a sealed envelope, and submitted to a notary public with two witnesses present. The content remains confidential until probate, but the formal submission process must follow Article 970 exactly.
Statutory TextA will shall be made in one of the forms prescribed in the following Articles.
— Civil Code, s. 967 — Form of Wills
Statutory TextA holographic will shall be written entirely in the testator’s own handwriting, dated, and signed by the testator.
— Civil Code, s. 968 — Holographic Will
Statutory TextA notarized will shall be made in the presence of a notary public and at least two witnesses.
— Civil Code, s. 969 — Notarized Will
Statutory TextA sealed will shall be submitted to a notary public in the presence of at least two witnesses.
— Civil Code, s. 970 — Sealed Will
What to Do
Choose the will type that best fits your needs: use a notarized will for maximum security and enforceability.
For a holographic will, write the entire document—including date and signature—by hand; do not use stamps, printouts, or assistants.
For a sealed will, prepare the document privately, seal it, then visit a notary with two adult witnesses who can attest to the submission (not the content).
Store notarized wills with the notary; keep holographic wills in a safe, accessible place—and inform your executor of its location.
Review and update your will after major life events (e.g., marriage, birth, asset changes), as Japanese law does not automatically revoke outdated wills.
Sources
Not 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.