不動産登記法（Real Property Registration Act）: An Overview

This overview introduces Japan's Real Property Registration Act, which serves as the official rulebook for the nation's property ledger. The law operates on two main pillars: registering rights, such as ownership transfers or mortgages, which are crucial for making these rights opposable to third parties, and recording physical property details like lot divisions or new construction. Key principles include the idea that registration provides public notice but not indefeasible reliance, meaning one cannot always trust the register's accuracy. The act generally requires joint applications for registration, though exceptions exist, and establishes rules for determining priority based on registration order. Recent amendments, such as the mandatory registration of inherited property within three years, are also highlighted as significant changes impacting property owners.