1. Introduction
Marriage is a major milestone in any culture, and Japan is no different. What is the youngest age to get married in Japan? This is a question that many people have, as the legal age for marriage in Japan has changed over time. In this article, we will explore the history of marriage in Japan, the current legal age for marriage, factors that affect the minimum age of marriage, and recent changes to the minimum age for marriage.
2. History of Marriage in Japan
Marriage has been an important part of Japanese culture for centuries. Historically, marriages were arranged by parents or other family members and were based on financial and social considerations rather than love or personal preference. Until World War II, women were not allowed to choose their own husbands and had to obey their fathers’ decisions regarding whom they should marry.

3. Legal Age for Marriage in Japan
The legal age for marriage in Japan was set at 18 years old for both men and women in 1947 when the Japanese Constitution was established. This law was amended in 1985 to allow women to marry at 16 years old with parental consent; however, men must still be 18 years old before they can legally marry without parental consent.
4. Factors Affecting the Minimum Age of Marriage in Japan
There are several factors that affect the minimum age of marriage in Japan, including cultural norms and traditions as well as economic considerations such as income levels and employment opportunities. Additionally, social pressures such as family expectations can also influence when people decide to get married.
5. The Impact of Changing the Minimum Age of Marriage in Japan
Changing the minimum age of marriage has had both positive and negative impacts on Japanese society as a whole. On one hand, it has given young people more freedom to choose their own partners and pursue their own paths without having to worry about being forced into an arranged marriage or pressured into marrying someone chosen by their parents or family members. On the other hand, some argue that lowering the legal age for marriage could lead to more underage marriages and put young people at risk of exploitation or abuse from older partners who may not have their best interests at heart.
6. Recent Changes to the Minimum Age for Marriage in Japan
In recent years there have been several attempts to raise the minimum age for marriage back up to 18 years old without parental consent; however none have been successful so far due partly to opposition from conservative groups who believe that 16-year-olds should be able to marry if they wish with parental permission.
7. Common Misconceptions about The Legal Age For Marriage In Japan
There are several misconceptions about what is considered a legal age for marriage in Japan which can lead people astray if not clarified properly:
• The legal age for both men and women is 18 years old – although women can marry at 16 with parental consent, men must still be 18 before they can legally marry without parental consent;
• The law does not apply if it’s a religious ceremony – all marriages must abide by Japanese law regardless if it’s conducted according to religious customs;
• It’s possible to get married before you turn 18 – while it may be possible under certain circumstances (such as parental consent), it is illegal unless you are 18 years old;
• Foreigners must follow different rules – foreign citizens living in Japan must abide by Japanese laws regarding legal ages just like everyone else;
• It’s easy to get around these laws – while there are loopholes that can be used (such as getting married abroad), these are difficult processes that require time-consuming paperwork and often come with serious consequences if caught breaking them;
8 Conclusion
In conclusion, what is considered a legal age for marriage varies from country-to-country but remains fixed at 18 years old (or 16 with parental permission) within Japanese law regardless of religious ceremonies or foreign citizenship status within its borders.It’s important not only understand this law but also recognize its implications on society when considering whether or not one should proceed with an underage union.
9 Sources
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https://www1censusjapanjp/en/toukei_suii_topic/html/topic_t0109_02html#t010902_03
https://wwwthejapantimescom/news/nation/2020/10/17/minimum-age-for-marriage-in-japan-should-be-raised-to-18/
https://wwwjapantodaycom/category/features/lifestyle/what%E 2%80%99s-the-legal -age -for -marriage -in -Japan
How old is minor in Japan?
The age of majority in Japan was lowered from 20 to 18 on 1 April 2022. It makes it possible for 18- or 19-year-olds to sign smartphone contracts or take out loans without parental permission but they are held responsible for such decisions.
What age can a girl get married in Japan?
Under Japanese civil law the minimum age for marriage is 18 for boys and 16 for girls. A person under the age of 20 cannot marry in Japan without parental consent. From 2022 the legal age of marriage will be for girls and boys.
What is the lowest marriage age in the world?
In countries where the marriage age is below 16 for example in Iran the minimum age for marriage with parental consent is 13 for girls and 15 for boys but for women without parental consent. Minimum 15 years and 18 years required. for men. 3 days ago
What is the illegal age in Japan?
Puberty officially begins at age 20 and is one of the most memorable events in ones life in Japan. Here are the new changes. On April 1 2022 Japan lowered the legal age of puberty to 10.
What country has the lowest age consent?
Both Angola and the Philippines have the lowest age of consent in the world.
What is Japanese age of consent?
Japan currently has the lowest age of consent among the G7 countries and developed countries with an age of consent of 13 years. A panel of Japans Ministry of Justice has recommended raising the age of consent from 13 to 16. February 22 2023

