TMShohyo Navi

Japan Trademark Search & Registration Guide

Check if your trademark is available in Japan — instantly and for free.Covering all 45 Nice classes, from search to filing.

No registration required — completely free

All 45 ClassesAI Similarity AnalysisNo Sign-up Required
Covers all 45 Nice classesNo account needed — search instantlyBased on JPO data

Search. File. Protect.

Search

Enter a trademark name to instantly check its registration status in Japan. See availability across all 45 classes.

Search Trademarks

File

AI analyzes trademark similarity and generates filing documents. Ready to submit to the Japan Patent Office.

View Services

Protect

AI monitors new trademark filings for potential conflicts. Keep your brand protected continuously.

Learn More

Why Register a Trademark in Japan?

First-to-file system — someone else can take your brand name

Japan follows a first-to-file principle. Even if you've been using a brand name for years, another party can register it first and gain exclusive rights.

Forced rebranding costs ¥100,000s+

If your trademark is found to infringe on another's rights, you may be forced to change your brand name — including signage, packaging, domain, and all marketing materials.

Amazon Brand Registry requires a registered trademark

To enroll in Amazon Brand Registry in Japan and protect against unauthorized sellers, you need a registered trademark with the JPO.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does trademark registration in Japan cost?

Filing fees start at approximately ¥12,000–¥28,200 per class (government fees only). If you hire a patent attorney (benrishi), expect ¥80,000–¥150,000 total.

How long does trademark registration take in Japan?

The Japan Patent Office (JPO) examination typically takes 6–12 months. The expedited examination system can reduce this to 2–3 months in some cases.

What are Nice classes?

Trademarks are categorized into 45 Nice classes under the international classification system. Classes 1–34 cover goods, and classes 35–45 cover services. You must select the relevant classes when filing.

Can I register a trademark that already exists in Japan?

If the existing trademark is registered in a different class, you may still be able to register. For example, 'YOKAN' for restaurants and 'YOKAN' for clothing are in different classes and may coexist.

Check your trademark availability now

Japan uses a first-to-file system. If someone else registers your brand name first, you lose the right to use it.

Search Trademarks — Free

This tool provides preliminary trademark search results and general information only. It does not constitute legal advice. The accuracy of search results cannot be guaranteed. For trademark registration, please consult a licensed patent attorney (弁理士/benrishi). Shohyo Navi is a trademark information service operated by Mycat Inc.