The Japan Patent Office (JPO) initially published the English guidebook titled “Your Key to Success: for Obtaining a Design Right in Japan” in January 2024 to help international users understand the design system in Japan. In addition, the Japanese and Chinese translations of this guide are now available.

This guide is specifically designed for international users familiar with their own country’s design systems but lacking detailed knowledge of the Japanese design system. It provides a concise explanation of the unique features of the Japanese design system, recent legal amendments, and common pitfalls for international users during the design application process in Japan. The content includes actual registration examples and hypothetical cases to facilitate understanding.

For further details, please refer to the JPO website (Japanese only).