About us
Message from the
Chair & Managing Partner
A law firm that gets to the core of management decisions and provides confidence for the next move.
That is who we are.
We have been entrusted by clients with numerous significant matters - both in Japan and abroad - for over half a century since our founding in 1963.
This is not solely because we have outstanding attorneys.
We have consistently valued an unwavering Purpose and our Mission to give form to that vision.
We believe it is precisely this dedication to both that has been the source of the unique legal services our firm provides.
Our Purpose
“To support the activities of businesses and individuals with legal expertise,
and to play a part in building a future of freedom and order within a changing world.”
This vision is why we dedicate ourselves to continuous self-improvement
and why we remain committed to delivering Japan's highest quality legal services.
Our Mission
“Forward with Conviction”
We empower clients to make choices with conviction and drive through proposals that guide judgment and action.
Based on our ability to discern essential matters and our deep understanding of business,
we provide incisive advice that bolsters management decisions.
Our mission is to support and stand alongside our clients,
providing solid backing so they can move forward without hesitation.
Our Values
Insight
Continuously honing our insight
Creativity
Exerting imagination and refining ingenuity
Drive and Passion
Tackling our work with ambition and passion
Be Proactive
Take initiative rather than react, shaping the course of events
Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
Never set limits for ourselves and never compromise
Deliver Beyond Expectations
Achieve results that exceed expectations
These values form the foundation of the legal services we provide.
Moving forward, we will continue to be a beacon guiding the way through rough seas,
pioneering a “future of freedom and order” through legal services that provide clients with certainty and momentum.
Chair & Managing Partner Kazuhiro Yanagida
Our Features
01
Deep Understanding of Business and Corporate Culture
Our attorneys prioritize deciphering the underlying context of each case across a wide range of business fields, encompassing an understanding of the relevant business, organization, and the background of decision-making.
This spirit of inquiry and willingness to go beyond the narrow scope of legal practice to uncover the essence of issues enable us to find optimal solutions that legal theory alone cannot provide. This is why we are highly regarded for understanding the intentions of our clients and delivering insightful advice.
02
In-Depth Proposals That Bring Confidence and Momentum to Decisions
Corporate legal work involves a continuous series of judgments, and clients are sometimes forced to make decisions amid uncertainty and hesitation. Our attorneys go beyond merely explaining risks or offering commentary; they provide in-depth proposals based on the perspective of "How would I make that decision if I were the client?"
These proposals help clients overcome hesitation and move forward with conviction—this is what we value most.
03
Thinking Together and Accompanying You Toward the Best Path Forward
Our attorneys treat clients' challenges as their own, working as one team from the initial stages through to the conclusion of each case.
Corporate legal matters often lack clear-cut answers, and situations change rapidly. That's precisely why we don't act as mere external advisors. We share our clients' aspirations and goals, collaboratively designing the optimal strategy and execution process for each situation, and accompany them every step of the way to ensure steady progress.
Recognition
We have earned high praise both domestically and internationally based on our expertise and proven track record.
Honors
2025
Misao Shimizu, Former Chief Judge of the Intellectual Property High Court, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays
2023
Takashi Yamamoto, Former Commissioner, Fair Trade Commission, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays
2018
Yukio Yanagida, Founding Attorney, Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette
Rankings & Awards
Our Firm
2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking” : 8th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2021
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2020
ALB Japan Law Awards 2020 Winner (Equity Market Deal of the Year: Recruit Holdings’ Global Offering)
2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Lawyers Who Excelled This Year: Ranked by Companies (2025)” Cross-Border M&A: 4th place, General Corporate Law: 6th place, Compliance: 10th place, AI Governance: 17th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 6th place, Consumer Affairs: 6th place, General Corporate Law: 7th place, Tax: 13th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 2nd place, Corporate Law: 4th place, Crisis Management: 7th place, Business and Human Rights: 10th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 2nd place, Corporate Law: 4th place
2021
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Corporate Legal Affairs: 3rd place
2020
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 2nd place, Corporate Legal Affairs Overall: 3rd place, Crisis Management: 7th place
2019
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" General Corporate Law: 5th place, Data-Related Fields: 7th place
2018
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Economic Law/Trade: 3rd place, Corporate Legal Affairs: 5th place, Crisis Management: 8th place
2017
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Disputes/Litigation: 3rd place, Corporate Legal Affairs: 4th place
2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Lawyers Who Excelled This Year: Ranked by Companies (2025)” Antitrust / Competition Law: 5th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 6th place, Consumer Affairs: 6th place, Tax: 13th place, General Corporate Law: 16th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Crisis Management: 7th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Antitrust/Competition Law: 5th place
2020
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 6th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Intellectual Property: 5th place
2010
Nikkei Business’ "Business Lawyer Ranking" Overall: 4th place
Selected for Weekly Toyo Keizai's "14 Outstanding Lawyers Selected by Major Banks and Securities Firms"
History
Founding Period
1963
Established Yanagida Law Office
Establishing International Trust
1991
Yukio Yanagida appointed as Visiting Professor at Harvard Law School
Yukio Yanagida, founder of our firm, accepted an invitation from Harvard Law School and lectured as a visiting professor from January to December 1991.
1994
Published "Law and Investment in Japan" with Harvard University Press
Yukio Yanagida published "Law and Investment in Japan" (co-authored with Daniel H. Foote, J. Mark Ramseyer, Hugh T. Scogin, and Edward Stokes Johnson Jr.) with Harvard University Press. This is a casebook based on the teaching materials "FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN JAPAN: FOCUS ON JOINT VENTURES, Case Study Materials" prepared by Yukio Yanagida for his Harvard Law School lectures. The book received significant acclaim, and a second edition was published in 2000.
1997
Yukio Yanagida appointed to Harvard Law School Dean's Advisory Board
Yukio Yanagida accepted an invitation from Professor Robert Clark, then Dean of Harvard Law School, to serve as a member of the Dean's Advisory Board.
2001
Published "The Ideal and Reality of the Law School Concept"
Yukio Yanagida published essays related to the law school concept in the "Jurist" journal issued by Yuhikaku in February 1998 and July 1999. These articles led the debate on the Japanese law school concept. In 2001, Yukio Yanagida published "The Ideal and Reality of the Law School Concept," summarizing his vision, with Yuhikaku.
2003
Mr. Motokazu Kikuchi, co-editor of “Commentary on the Antimonopoly Act,” joined the firm.
2010
Renamed Yanagida & Partners
2010
Published "Harvard: The Secret of Excellence"
Yukio Yanagida published "Harvard: Secrets of Excellence" (co-authored with Daniel H. Foote, then Professor at the University of Tokyo), introducing the educational approach of Harvard Law School, with the aim of contributing to the reform of Japan's law schools.
Continuing and Deepening Our Philosophy
2013
Kazuhiro Yanagida appointed as Representative Partner
2018
Misao Shimizu, former Chief Judge of the Intellectual Property High Court, joined the firm
2023
Takashi Yamamoto, former Commissioner of the Japan Fair Trade Commission, joined the firm
Public Interest Activities
Through various public interest activities, we give back to society the experience and knowledge cultivated as attorneys. Simultaneously, engaging in activities outside our daily practice allows us to gain new insights, deepen our understanding of society, and further enhance our creativity and imagination.
International Public Interest Activities
Member, Harvard Law School Advisory Committee
Advisor, Japan-Law Asia Friendship Association
Member, Harvard Law School Leadership Council
Member, World Bank Task Force Review Committee
Expert Committee Member, International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Non-Governmental Advisor, International Competition Network (ICN)
Activities in Educational Institutions
Visiting Professor, Harvard Law School
Member, Advisory Committee on Operations, University of Tokyo Law School
Visiting Specially Appointed Professor, Tohoku University
(Advanced Graduate Program for Future Medicine and Health Care)
Visiting Professor, Keio University Graduate School of Law
Visiting Professor, Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies, Waseda University
Member, Waseda University Council
Auditor, Waseda University
Part-time Lecturer, Tsukuba University Law School
Activities in Government Agencies, etc.
Member, Private International Law Subcommittee, Legislative Council
Civil Conciliation Commissioner, Tokyo District Court
Member, Industrial Property Council, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
Director, Fair Trade Association (Public Interest Incorporated Foundation)
Member, Japan Patent Attorneys Association Registration Examination Committee
Member, Tokyo Customs Specialist Committee
Other Activities at Public Institutions
Council Member, Daiwa Securities Foundation
Auditor, DNP Foundation for Cultural Promotion
Director, Ebara Hatakeyama Memorial Foundation
Pro bono activities and other public interest activities
Policy advocacy activities for the national government and various local governments
About us
Message from the Chair & Managing Partner
A law firm that gets to the core of management decisions and provides confidence for the next move.
That is who we are.
We have been entrusted by clients with numerous significant matters - both in Japan and abroad - for over half a century since our founding in 1963.
This is not solely because we have outstanding attorneys.
We have consistently valued an unwavering Purpose and our Mission to give form to that vision.
We believe it is precisely this dedication to both that has been the source of the unique legal services our firm provides.
Our Purpose
“To support the activities of businesses and individuals with legal expertise,
and to play a part in building a future of freedom and order within a changing world.”
This vision is why we dedicate ourselves to continuous self-improvement
and why we remain committed to delivering Japan's highest quality legal services.
Our Mission
“Forward with Conviction”
We empower clients to make choices with conviction and drive through proposals that guide judgment and action.
Based on our ability to discern essential matters and our deep understanding of business,
we provide incisive advice that bolsters management decisions.
Our mission is to support and stand alongside our clients,
providing solid backing so they can move forward without hesitation.
Our Values
Insight
Continuously honing our insight
Creativity
Exerting imagination and refining ingenuity
Drive and Passion
Tackling our work with ambition and passion
Be Proactive
Take initiative rather than react, shaping the course of events
Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
Never set limits for ourselves and never compromise
Deliver Beyond Expectations
Achieve results that exceed expectations
These values form the foundation of the legal services we provide.
Moving forward, we will continue to be a beacon guiding the way through rough seas,
pioneering a “future of freedom and order” through legal services that provide clients with certainty and momentum.
Chair & Managing Partner Kazuhiro Yanagida
Our Features
01
Deep Understanding of Business and Corporate Culture
Our attorneys prioritize deciphering the underlying context of each case across a wide range of business fields, encompassing an understanding of the relevant business, organization, and the background of decision-making.
This spirit of inquiry and willingness to go beyond the narrow scope of legal practice to uncover the essence of issues enable us to find optimal solutions that legal theory alone cannot provide. This is why we are highly regarded for understanding the intentions of our clients and delivering insightful advice.
02
In-Depth Proposals That Bring Confidence and Momentum to Decisions
Corporate legal work involves a continuous series of judgments, and clients are sometimes forced to make decisions amid uncertainty and hesitation. Our attorneys go beyond merely explaining risks or offering commentary; they provide in-depth proposals based on the perspective of "How would I make that decision if I were the client?"
These proposals help clients overcome hesitation and move forward with conviction—this is what we value most.
03
Thinking Together and Accompanying You Toward the Best Path Forward
Our attorneys treat clients' challenges as their own, working as one team from the initial stages through to the conclusion of each case.
Corporate legal matters often lack clear-cut answers, and situations change rapidly. That's precisely why we don't act as mere external advisors. We share our clients' aspirations and goals, collaboratively designing the optimal strategy and execution process for each situation, and accompany them every step of the way to ensure steady progress.
Recognition
We have earned high praise both domestically and internationally based on our expertise and proven track record.
Honors
2025
Misao Shimizu, Former Chief Judge of the Intellectual Property High Court, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays
2023
Takashi Yamamoto, Former Commissioner, Fair Trade Commission, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays
2018
Yukio Yanagida, Founding Attorney, Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette
Rankings & Awards
Our Firm
2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking” : 8th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2021
Nikkei Inc.’s "Most Dependable Law Firm Ranking": 7th place
2020
ALB Japan Law Awards 2020 Winner (Equity Market Deal of the Year: Recruit Holdings’ Global Offering)
Kazuhiro Yanagida
View Attorney Profile2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Lawyers Who Excelled This Year: Ranked by Companies (2025)” Cross-Border M&A: 4th place, General Corporate Law: 6th place, Compliance: 10th place, AI Governance: 17th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 6th place, Consumer Affairs: 6th place, General Corporate Law: 7th place, Tax: 13th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 2nd place, Corporate Law: 4th place, Crisis Management: 7th place, Business and Human Rights: 10th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 2nd place, Corporate Law: 4th place
2021
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Corporate Legal Affairs: 3rd place
2020
Kazuhiro Yanagida, Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 2nd place, Corporate Legal Affairs Overall: 3rd place, Crisis Management: 7th place
2019
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" General Corporate Law: 5th place, Data-Related Fields: 7th place
2018
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Economic Law/Trade: 3rd place, Corporate Legal Affairs: 5th place, Crisis Management: 8th place
2017
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Disputes/Litigation: 3rd place, Corporate Legal Affairs: 4th place
Yusuke Kawashima
View Attorney Profile2025
Nikkei Inc.’s “Lawyers Who Excelled This Year: Ranked by Companies (2025)” Antitrust / Competition Law: 5th place
2024
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" International Trade & Economic Security: 6th place, Consumer Affairs: 6th place, Tax: 13th place, General Corporate Law: 16th place
2023
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Crisis Management: 7th place
2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Antitrust/Competition Law: 5th place
2020
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" M&A: 6th place
Misao Shimizu
View Attorney Profile2022
Nikkei Inc.’s "Lawyers Selected by Companies Ranking" Intellectual Property: 5th place
Yukio Yanagida
View Attorney Profile2010
Nikkei Business’ "Business Lawyer Ranking" Overall: 4th place
Selected for Weekly Toyo Keizai's "14 Outstanding Lawyers Selected by Major Banks and Securities Firms"
History
Founding Period
1963
Established Yanagida Law Office
Establishing International Trust
1991
Yukio Yanagida appointed as Visiting Professor at Harvard Law School
Yukio Yanagida, founder of our firm, accepted an invitation from Harvard Law School and lectured as a visiting professor from January to December 1991.
1994
Published "Law and Investment in Japan" with Harvard University Press
Yukio Yanagida published "Law and Investment in Japan" (co-authored with Daniel H. Foote, J. Mark Ramseyer, Hugh T. Scogin, and Edward Stokes Johnson Jr.) with Harvard University Press. This is a casebook based on the teaching materials "FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN JAPAN: FOCUS ON JOINT VENTURES, Case Study Materials" prepared by Yukio Yanagida for his Harvard Law School lectures. The book received significant acclaim, and a second edition was published in 2000.
1997
Yukio Yanagida appointed to Harvard Law School Dean's Advisory Board
Yukio Yanagida accepted an invitation from Professor Robert Clark, then Dean of Harvard Law School, to serve as a member of the Dean's Advisory Board.
2001
Published "The Ideal and Reality of the Law School Concept"
Yukio Yanagida published essays related to the law school concept in the "Jurist" journal issued by Yuhikaku in February 1998 and July 1999. These articles led the debate on the Japanese law school concept. In 2001, Yukio Yanagida published "The Ideal and Reality of the Law School Concept," summarizing his vision, with Yuhikaku.
2003
Mr. Motokazu Kikuchi, co-editor of “Commentary on the Antimonopoly Act,” joined the firm.
2010
Renamed Yanagida & Partners
2010
Published "Harvard: The Secret of Excellence"
Yukio Yanagida published "Harvard: Secrets of Excellence" (co-authored with Daniel H. Foote, then Professor at the University of Tokyo), introducing the educational approach of Harvard Law School, with the aim of contributing to the reform of Japan's law schools.
Continuing and Deepening Our Philosophy
2013
Kazuhiro Yanagida appointed as Representative Partner
2018
Misao Shimizu, former Chief Judge of the Intellectual Property High Court, joined the firm
2023
Takashi Yamamoto, former Commissioner of the Japan Fair Trade Commission, joined the firm
Public Interest Activities
Through various public interest activities, we give back to society the experience and knowledge cultivated as attorneys. Simultaneously, engaging in activities outside our daily practice allows us to gain new insights, deepen our understanding of society, and further enhance our creativity and imagination.
International Public Interest Activities
Member, Harvard Law School Advisory Committee
Advisor, Japan-Law Asia Friendship Association
Member, Harvard Law School Leadership Council
Member, World Bank Task Force Review Committee
Expert Committee Member, International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Non-Governmental Advisor, International Competition Network (ICN)
Activities in Educational Institutions
Visiting Professor, Harvard Law School
Member, Advisory Committee on Operations, University of Tokyo Law School
Visiting Specially Appointed Professor, Tohoku University
(Advanced Graduate Program for Future Medicine and Health Care)
Visiting Professor, Keio University Graduate School of Law
Visiting Professor, Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies, Waseda University
Member, Waseda University Council
Auditor, Waseda University
Part-time Lecturer, Tsukuba University Law School
Activities in Government Agencies, etc.
Member, Private International Law Subcommittee, Legislative Council
Civil Conciliation Commissioner, Tokyo District Court
Member, Industrial Property Council, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
Director, Fair Trade Association (Public Interest Incorporated Foundation)
Member, Japan Patent Attorneys Association Registration Examination Committee
Member, Tokyo Customs Specialist Committee
Other Activities at Public Institutions
Council Member, Daiwa Securities Foundation
Auditor, DNP Foundation for Cultural Promotion
Director, Ebara Hatakeyama Memorial Foundation
Pro bono activities and other public interest activities
Policy advocacy activities for the national government and various local governments
