According to the Supreme Court of Japan's Annual Report of Judicial Statistics, inheritance renunciation filings reached 324,000 in 2025, a record high, up approximately 5% from the previous year.
The Data
- 2025: 324,000 (record high)
- 2015: 189,000
- 10-year increase: approximately 70%
- 2025 deaths in Japan: 1.59 million (renunciations are rising faster than the rate of increase in deaths)
Background of the Increase
Under Article 915 of the Civil Code, an heir must file for renunciation with the family court within 3 months of learning that inheritance has commenced. Beyond renunciations motivated by the decedent's debts, a notable driver is heirs seeking to avoid taking on so-called "negative real estate" — land or buildings with no prospective use or buyer that would otherwise burden the heir with upkeep and disposal costs.
Relation to Mandatory Inheritance Registration
Since the mandatory inheritance registration rule took effect on April 1, 2024, heirs must file for registration of inherited real property within 3 years of learning of the acquisition. For heirs who wish to avoid inheriting property that is burdensome to manage or dispose of, renouncing the inheritance can be one way to avoid this registration obligation.
Summary
- Inheritance renunciation filings reached a record 324,000 in 2025, up about 5% year on year
- Up roughly 70% from 189,000 in 2015
- Renunciations are increasing faster than the rate of increase in deaths
- Avoidance of "negative real estate," not just debt, is cited as a notable driver
Inheritance renunciation is generally subject to a 3-month deadline from learning that inheritance has commenced, and once accepted by the court, it cannot be withdrawn. Those uncertain how to handle an estate that may include burdensome real property are encouraged to consult a Gyoseishoshi or other specialist within the deadline. Consult Sakura Central Legal Office (MOJ-certified application agent).