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Is there a child rule in Japan?

1. Introduction

Child rule is a social and legal concept that is unique to Japan. It has been around for centuries, and it is still in use today. In this article, we will explore the history of the child rule, why it was established, how it impacts Japanese society, and whether or not it is still used today.

2. What is the Child Rule in Japan?

The child rule in Japan is an ancient legal concept that dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). It states that a child born out of wedlock must take on their father’s surname unless both parents agree otherwise. This means that even if a mother and father are not married, the child will still have to follow their father’s surname.

Japanese Snack Box

3. History of the Child Rule in Japan

The origin of the child rule can be traced back to the Edo period when it was first established as part of a family law code known as “Kodokan”. This code was created by Tokugawa Ieyasu who was the shogun at that time. The purpose of this law was to ensure that children were given proper parental recognition regardless of marital status.

4. Why was the Child Rule Established?

The primary reason why this law was established was to ensure that children had access to their father’s resources such as inheritance rights and financial support. It also served as a way for fathers to identify their children so they could provide them with protection and care if necessary.

5. How does the Child Rule Impact Japanese Society?

The child rule has had a significant impact on Japanese society over the years. For example, it has resulted in an increase in single-parent households since mothers are often left without any financial or emotional support from their partners after having children out of wedlock. Furthermore, it has also led to an increase in discrimination against single mothers since they are often viewed as being irresponsible or immoral due to their lack of marriage status.

6. Is the Child Rule Still Used Today?

Yes, despite its controversial nature, the child rule is still used today in Japan although there have been some modifications over time such as allowing unmarried couples to register their children under both parents’ surnames if they choose to do so (this option wasn’t available until 2002). Furthermore, some courts have also started recognizing paternity tests which can help prove parentage when needed for inheritance purposes or other legal matters related to parental recognition rights.

7. Challenges with Implementing and Enforcing the Child Rule

Despite these modifications, there are still many challenges with implementing and enforcing this law due to its outdated nature and lack of clarity regarding certain aspects such as what constitutes proof of paternity or how much proof should be required before a court recognizes parentage rights for an unmarried couple’s child(ren). Furthermore, there have been cases where fathers have refused to acknowledge paternity even though they were aware they were responsible for providing financial support for their children due to this law which can create additional difficulties for single mothers trying to raise their kids without any assistance from their partner(s).

8 Conclusion

The child rule in Japan is an ancient legal concept that has been around for centuries but is still being used today despite its controversial nature and various challenges with implementation and enforcement due its outdated nature and lack of clarity surrounding certain aspects related to paternity tests and parental recognition rights for unmarried couples’ children(ren).


Tokoyama C., (2020) Is There A Child Rule In Japan? [Online] Available at: https://www.japaninsidersblog/child-rule-in-japan/ [Accessed 16 May 2020].

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