Japanese Business Glossary

遺贈 (izo) refers to a bequest or legacy in Japanese legal terms. It is a provision made in a will where the deceased (testator) leaves specific assets or property to a designated person or entity.

This can include money, real estate, personal belongings, or other types of property. The person or entity receiving the bequest is known as the legatee (受遺者, jueisha).

Izo is a common way for individuals to distribute their estate according to their wishes after they pass away. It is governed by the laws outlined in the Japanese Civil Code.

認可外保育園 (ninka-gai hoikuen) refers to non-licensed or unaccredited daycare centers in Japan. Unlike licensed daycare centers, which must meet specific government standards and regulations regarding staff qualifications, facility safety, and educational programs, ninka-gai hoikuen are not subject to these stringent requirements.

These non-licensed daycare centers often offer more flexible hours and can be easier to get into, making them a popular choice for parents who need childcare but cannot find or afford a spot in a licensed facility. While they provide essential childcare services, the quality and safety standards of ninka-gai hoikuen can vary widely, so parents are advised to carefully research and visit these centers before enrolling their children.

借地権 (shakuchiken) refers to leasehold rights or land lease rights in Japan. This legal concept allows an individual or entity (the leaseholder) to use and occupy land owned by another party (the landowner) for a specific period, usually for residential or commercial purposes. The leaseholder typically pays a lease fee or rent to the landowner for the right to use the land.

Shakuchiken is often used in urban areas where land ownership is expensive, allowing people to build homes or businesses without having to purchase the land outright. The terms and conditions of a leasehold agreement are outlined in a lease contract, which specifies the duration of the lease, the lease fee, and any other obligations of the leaseholder and landowner.

The duration of shakuchiken leases is usually long-term, often extending for several decades. In Japan, there are specific laws and regulations governing leasehold rights, providing protections for both leaseholders and landowners. For example, the Act on Land and Building Leases (借地借家法) ensures that leaseholders have security of tenure and fair treatment in lease renewals and terminations.

When a land lease expires, the leaseholder may have the right to renew the lease or negotiate new terms with the landowner. If the leaseholder decides to transfer their leasehold rights to another party, they typically need the landowner's consent.

Overall, leasehold rights provides a flexible and cost-effective way for individuals and businesses to utilize land without the high costs associated with land ownership, while also ensuring legal protections and clarity for both leaseholders and landowners.

借地権割合 (shakuchiken wariai) refers to the land leasehold ratio in Japan. This ratio indicates the proportion of a property's value that is attributed to the land leasehold interest. In Japan, land and buildings are often owned separately, with individuals or entities leasing the land for extended periods. The shakuchiken wariai is essential in property transactions and evaluations as it helps determine the value of the leasehold interest compared to the overall property value. This ratio is particularly important for calculating taxes, determining rental rates, and assessing the market value of leasehold properties. Understanding the concept of land leasehold ratio is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure fair and accurate property dealings.

地上権 (chijoken) refers to a surface rights or land leasehold rights in Japan. This legal right allows an individual or entity to use and develop land owned by someone else, typically for purposes such as constructing buildings or other structures. Chijoken is distinct from full ownership because the holder of the right does not own the land itself, only the right to use it for a specified period and purpose.

The terms and conditions of a chijoken are outlined in a formal agreement between the landowner and the holder of the surface rights. This agreement specifies the duration of the right, which can be long-term (up to several decades) and any obligations or restrictions related to the use of the land. The holder of chijoken usually pays the landowner a fee or rent for the use of the land.

地上権 is commonly used in urban development and real estate projects where land ownership is retained by one party, such as a government or private landowner, while another party develops and utilizes the land. This arrangement can be beneficial for both parties, allowing the landowner to retain ownership while generating income, and enabling the holder to use the land without purchasing it outright. Proper legal documentation and adherence to the agreement terms are essential to managing 地上権 effectively.

宅地 (takuchi) refers to residential land or a building lot in Japan. This term describes land that is designated for residential use, where houses, apartments, or other types of dwelling structures can be built.

In urban planning and real estate contexts, takuchi is distinguished from other types of land use, such as commercial, industrial, or agricultural land. The zoning regulations and land use policies governing residential land determine what can be built on the land and how it can be used.

The value of takuchi can vary based on factors such as location, size, accessibility, and the availability of utilities and infrastructure. In densely populated areas, residential land tends to be more valuable due to higher demand. Understanding the classification and regulations of residential land is important for real estate transactions, property development, and urban planning.