Japan as a Postmodern Legal Reality

Japanese law is of postmodern essence. Subsequent to the end of the Tokugawa era and as awareness of Japan's legal environment grew, Japanese law began to be described as postmodern. When considered on an international basis, Japan is truly a unique society, engaging in extensive transnational activities while still retaining a distinctly 'Japanese' identity. This article posits that Japan has attained a state of postmodernity in many respects, but particularly in its approach to law and its legal environment. As evidence of this claim, this article will consider the historical and contemporary aspects of Japanese law, including the legal reforms since 1868 and the role of socio-cultural influences, such as the culture of apology and the profound concept of giri