Age of majority in Japan (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: Japan sets adulthood at 18, with the right to vote and the minimum marriage age also at 18. A person under 14 is not punishable under the Penal Code.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Age of majorityLegal adulthood | A person is an adult at 18 years of age (Civil Code, Article 4). [1] |
| Voting age (national elections)Legal adulthood | A Japanese national aged 18 or older has the right to vote in elections for the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. [2] |
| Minimum age to marryLegal adulthood | Marriage cannot be contracted until a person has reached 18 years of age (Civil Code, Article 731). [3] |
| Age of criminal responsibilityLegal adulthood | The act of a person under 14 years of age is not punishable (Penal Code, Article 41). [4] |
Sources
- e-Gov Hōrei Kensaku (Digital Agency): 民法 (Civil Code), 第四条 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- e-Gov Hōrei Kensaku (Digital Agency): 公職選挙法 (Public Offices Election Act), 第九条 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- e-Gov Hōrei Kensaku (Digital Agency): 民法 (Civil Code), 第七百三十一条 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- e-Gov Hōrei Kensaku (Digital Agency): 刑法 (Penal Code), 第四十一条 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.