What a Shihōshoshi Actually Does
And Why It Matters for Foreign Founders in Japan
Understanding Japan’s unique legal profession and its role in company formation.
Starting a business in Japan requires navigating legal processes that differ significantly from Europe or the US. One profession plays a central role in ensuring accuracy, compliance, and smooth registration: the Shihōshoshi. But what exactly does a Shihōshoshi do – and why is it so important for foreign entrepreneurs?
1. The Role of a Shihōshoshi in Japan’s Legal System
A Shihōshoshi (司法書士) is a licensed legal professional authorized by the Ministry of Justice. Their core authority includes:
- Company registration (KK, GK, branch offices)
- Commercial legal filings
- Real estate ownership registration
- Proxy representation at the Legal Affairs Bureau
- Preparation of legally compliant documents
Their specialization in registration and document law makes them the key contact for corporate and property filings.
2. Why This Matters for Foreign Founders
Most challenges foreign founders face in Japan are procedural, not business-related.
A Shihōshoshi ensures:
- Correct and compliant documents
- Smooth registration without delays
- Clarity on required forms and notarization paths
This avoids costly delays and ensures a predictable process for foreign founders.
3. Real-Life Example
A European client planned to establish a GK but submitted documents with:
- incorrect translations
- incorrect birthdate formats
- missing seals
- insufficient capital proof
After correction and restructuring by our Shihōshoshi, the registration was approved on the first attempt.
4. How Japan’s Shihōshoshi System Compares to Other Countries
Japan’s Shihōshoshi profession is unique, and understanding the differences helps foreign founders see its value.
Germany: Notaries and Lawyers
Tasks handled by one Shihōshoshi in Japan are split among:
- Notaries (authenticate & register companies)
- Lawyers (draft contracts & advise)
- Tax advisors (manage tax registration)
United Kingdom: No Notary Requirement
- Companies House registers companies online without legal review
- Solicitors draft documents
- Conveyancers handle property
No profession combines legal authority + registration expertise.
France & Spain: Strong Notarial Systems
- Notaires / Notarios manage incorporation and property registrations
- Lawyers support corporate structure
Spain also has the Gestor Administrativo, without legal authority.
United States: Minimal Formality
- Secretary of State filings are simple
- Attorneys handle legal matters
- Title companies manage real estate
No state-authorized registration expert exists.
Conclusion of Comparison
The Shihōshoshi combines elements of:
- a civil-law notary
- a registration expert
This hybrid model exists only in Japan — and is extremely valuable for foreign founders.
Conclusion
A Shihōshoshi is more than a document specialist — they provide legal certainty, accurate registration, and smooth procedures. For foreign entrepreneurs entering Japan’s market, their role is indispensable.
👉 Contact us for bilingual Shihōshoshi-backed company formation support.