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What is a koseki?
The First Step of Japanese Genealogy
The koseki (family register) is an official document that records and certifies births, marriages, deaths, and family relations in Japan. This registration process is administered and documented by municipal offices in cities, towns, and villages, allowing for a genealogical trace extending as far as approximately 4-6 generations, dating back to 1886 (Meiji 19). There are over 1,500 municipal offices across Japan, and formal procedures must be followed at the specific office where your ancestors resided. Our service eliminates the complexities involved in Koseki research. We handle all aspects of the process, from requesting the Koseki to translating it into English. By entrusting your genealogy research to our experts, you can save time and effort while gaining valuable insights into your family history.
Our services include:
1.Koseki Acquisition
We will request and obtain the necessary Koseki records from the relevant government offices.
2.Translation
We will provide professional translations of the Koseki documents into English.
3.Digitization
We will digitize the Koseki records for easy access and storage.
4.Genealogy Database Integration
We will enter the relevant information from the Koseki records into a genealogy database of your choice (such as FamilySearch, Ancestry, etc.).
Why choose our services?
Local Expertise
As a Japan-based company, we specialize in navigating local processes and regulations.
Streamlined Process
All contract procedures and document exchanges can be handled electronically, eliminating the need for international mail.
Expert Analysis
Our research experts possess the skills to decipher and analyze historical records, even those written in complex Japanese scripts.
Digital Delivery
We provide research findings in electronic format for easy access and storage. Physical copies can be mailed upon request.
Comprehensive Services
Beyond Koseki research, we offer additional services such as literature research, interviews, and on-site investigations.
Why you should request koseki records now?
Uncertain Future of the Koseki System
The Koseki system’s efficiency and relevance are currently under debate. There’s a possibility that the system may be abolished or modified in the future, making it more difficult to obtain Koseki records, especially for genealogy reasons.
Limited Preservation Period
Koseki records are only preserved for 150 years.
Meiji-era Koseki records will soon reach this limit, increasing the risk of their disposal.
Risk of Data Loss
Natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons, as well as human errors, can lead to the loss of Koseki records. The unpredictability of such events underscores the urgency of preserving your family history.
It’s crucial to request Koseki records promptly due to these factors. The future of the Koseki system is uncertain, the preservation period is limited, and the risk of data loss is always present.
