Two Recent Decisions on Patent Law: Trade Mark Act Sec. 3(1), (2) – “Hiyoko”

Abstract

Registration of a three-dimensional mark requires proof that the three-dimensional  shape  is  perceived  as  an  indication  of  origin  by  consumers  all  over Japan, not just in parts of the country.

Tokyo High Court, 29 November 2006

Nikakudô  v. Hiyoko