Das japanische Vertragsrecht unter dem Einfluß des europäischen und des deutschen Privatrechts

Abstract

This  article  presents  an  analysis  of  the  current  status  of  Japanese  contract  law  and  points  out  the  trends  that  characterize  the  legislative  development  relevant  for  globalization. To begin with, the author traces the historical background of Japanese  civil  law  in  order  to  clarify  its  origins  that  were modeled  on  various  European  legal  systems.  Following  this  reception  of  law,  German  legal  theories  were  adopted.  It  is  interesting now to watch how Japanese law is adapting to changing social conditions as  a result of globalization, and what Japan is contributing to globalization. The fact that  Japan also  plans  to  reform  its  civil  law is  a reflection  of  this  adaptation.  In  order  to  realize those reform plans, the current status of Japanese contract law has to be sorted  and critically evaluated. It is essential to clarify the role Japan will play in a worldwide  modernization of contract law. The author draws the conclusion that due to the great  historical influence which German civil law has played in Japan, it would be useful for  Japan to seek access to the current European developments in contract law via German  contract law.

(The Editors)