This Guide to the Japanese Patent System is meant to be an introduction to understanding the issues and participants in Japan's patent process. It is an overview of the differences between Japanese patent practices and those in the West and some of the challenges in seeking patent protection in Japan. The resources outlined in this Guide will help you continue your research and point you to experts that can answer your specific questions about Japanese patents. The Guide is not a legal text. Nothing can substitute for a good patent attorney.

Patents are at the heart of the U.S.-Japan technology relationship. These technical documents provide more than legal protection for innovation. They give insight into technological developments, predict scientific breakthroughs, and show the effectiveness of government policies. Leaving aside the issue of Japanese inventiveness, patent information supplies fascinating competitive data on both technology and industry. As the past decade of trade disputes shows, serious scientists and corporate managers ignore Japanese invention and patenting at a considerable risk. It is hoped that this Guide will alert readers to the necessity of tracking Japanese patenting strategies and pursuing an active campaign to protect their own intellectual property.

Gathering information on Japan is demanding, especially on sensitive industrial and scientific developments. You must take a Japanese approach in your research on Japan: never be satisfied with one answer nor one source. Patents are an important part of a successful information gathering program on Japan. The main object of this Guide is to develop the reader's critical judgement about information from and about Japan.--- June 1995