This article explores the legalities of self-defense in Japan and outlines the parameters that must be adhered to when engaging in such acts. The right to defend oneself from illegal acts committed by others is protected by Article 32 of the Japanese Constitution and further clarified within its Penal Code. Generally speaking, nonlethal forms are preferred over lethal ones like guns and knives, although these latter methods should only ever really be employed when absolutely necessary due to potential repercussions should one use excessive violence beyond what was needed. Penalties for excessive use of force can include fines and/or imprisonment depending on how serious their actions were deemed by police and prosecutors upon investigation into their case(s).