How to Use for Genealogy Research
The National Archives of Japan holds primary sources relating to Meiji-era government appointments, military records, judicial decisions, and other administrative documents. The Japan Center for Asian Historical Records (JACAR) digitizes and makes these freely available online.
Overview
Administered by the Cabinet Office. Main facility in Kitanomaru Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo; branch in Tsukuba, Ibaraki.
Useful Resources for Genealogy
- Imperial Honor Records (Joi Saika-sho): Meiji, Taisho, and Showa era decorations and court ranks
- Appointment Records (Nimmensaika-sho): Government official appointments and dismissals
- Former Army/Navy Records: Available through JACAR—unit records, vessel histories, operational logs
- Repatriation Records: Post-WWII repatriation documentation for overseas Japanese
Japan Center for Asian Historical Records (JACAR)
JACAR is an online database operated by the National Archives, digitizing records from the National Archives, Diplomatic Archives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and National Institute for Defense Studies.
- Former Army and Navy unit/vessel/operation records
- Individual soldier activity records from overseas theaters
- Post-war repatriation and demobilization materials
