JapanPrivate land expropriated for road. Compensation?
When private land in Japan is expropriated for road construction, the government must pay just compensation based on market value, assessed by an independent appraisal committee.
What the Law Says
Japan’s Public Works Act and related laws set strict rules for compensating landowners when land is expropriated for public roads.
The Land Expropriation Act (Act No. 219 of 1951) governs all compulsory acquisitions of private land for public projects, including roads. It requires that compensation be 'just and reasonable' and based on the fair market value of the land at the time of acquisition.
An independent Land Expropriation Committee — composed of three members appointed by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism — determines the compensation amount after reviewing appraisals and hearing from both the landowner and the acquiring authority.
Landowners may file an objection to the proposed compensation within 30 days of official notification. If unresolved, they may request a formal ruling from the committee. Any claim for additional compensation must be filed within five years from the date the expropriation decision becomes final.
Statutory TextCompensation shall be paid in an amount equivalent to the fair market value of the land at the time of the expropriation decision.
— Land Expropriation Act, s. 74 — Compensation Standard
Statutory TextThe Land Expropriation Committee shall consist of three members appointed by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
— Land Expropriation Act, s. 10 — Committee Composition
Statutory TextAn objection to the amount of compensation must be filed within thirty days from the date of notification.
— Land Expropriation Act, s. 82 — Objection Period
What to Do
Receive official notice of expropriation and proposed compensation amount.
Review the appraisal report and verify market comparables within 30 days.
File a written objection with the Land Expropriation Committee if compensation seems unfair.
Attend the committee hearing and present evidence (e.g., recent sale records, expert opinions).
If dissatisfied with the committee’s final ruling, file a claim in district court within 5 years.
Sources
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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.