Think of justice. What image comes to mind? Perhaps a blindfolded figure with scales? Here in Tokyo, that concept finds a physical form in the Supreme Court of Japan.
The Supreme Court stands in Hayabusacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo. It is the court of last resort. Established in 1947, it holds the ultimate judicial authority. It interprets the Japanese constitution. It decides on questions of national law. The Supreme Court building itself is a statement. Reconstruction was completed in October 1949. The Supreme Court used the building for twenty-five years. A plan for a new Supreme Court building was created in 1964. The current Supreme Court building is located at 4-2 Hayabusa-cho, Chiyoda.
Imagine the weight of decisions made within these walls. The power of judicial review allows the Supreme Court to assess the constitutionality of any law or official act.
The Supreme Court consists of 15 justices. This includes a Chief Justice. The Cabinet of Japan selects and appoints the Associate Justices. The Emperor of Japan appoints the Chief Justice. Justices must be over 40. They also need extensive knowledge of the law. Justices face retention elections. These occur with the first general election after their appointment. However, removal has never happened. Justices generally retire at age 70.
The Supreme Court manages all of Japan’s courts. It handles the operation, budget, and personnel. The Chief Justice has significant control over judicial personnel. This affects judges careers and advancement. The Supreme Court oversees the Legal Research and Training Institute.
Decisions within the Supreme Court are made by a Conference of the Justices. They can strike down legislation. However, they use this power infrequently. The Cabinet Legislation Bureau thoroughly investigates government legislation. This avoids constitutional flaws.
The Supreme Court is divided into three Petty Benches of five. These benches handle most appeals. Constitutional interpretations go to the Grand Bench. The Grand Bench includes all 15 Justices. Nine justices form a quorum.
The Supreme Court first convened in May 1947. It met in the former Privy Council quarters of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. It moved to the Tokyo District Court building later that year. The new building was completed in 1974. The new building is steel-reinforced concrete. It incorporates Japanese white granite. There are five floors above ground. There are two floors below ground.
Reflect on the balance between tradition and modernity embodied in the Supreme Court of Japan. A building of modern design. It houses a system rooted in ancient principles. It is a guardian of the constitution. It shapes the nation’s legal landscape. It stands as a symbol of justice in the heart of Tokyo.