Will Day (Igon no Hi)

What Is Will Day?

Every year on April 15th, Japan observes "Will Day" (Igon no Hi), established by the Kinki Federation of Bar Associations and later promoted nationally by the Japan Federation of Bar Associations. The date comes from the elaborate number wordplay "yo (4) - i (1) - i (1) - gon (5)," which sounds like "yoi igon," meaning "a good will." Beyond preventing inheritance disputes, this is a day to pause at life's milestones, look back on your journey, and convey gratitude and hope to family and friends — what might be called "organizing the heart."

Historical and Legal Facts About Wills

A will is a legal "bond" that respects individual wishes and protects the future of loved ones left behind.

• The landmark 2020 legal reform: Since July 2020, Japan's "self-written will storage system" allows handwritten wills to be stored at a Legal Affairs Bureau, drastically reducing the risk of loss or tampering — a major turning point in Japanese inheritance law.
• The social role of wills: Wills used to be seen as something only for the elderly, but as "end-of-life planning" (shukatsu) has spread, even younger generations are increasingly preparing for the unexpected — a reflection of responsibility in an era of smaller families.

Scientific Facts About the Psychological and Social Benefits

Facing and preparing for the "end" can be a positive force for living better now.

• Death awareness and happiness: Psychological research shows that not treating death as taboo, but acknowledging it appropriately, helps people re-recognize the value of "this moment" and increases daily happiness and satisfaction. Writing a will is, paradoxically, an act that maximizes the energy of "living."
• Preventing disputes and supporting mental health: Disputes among relatives caused by the absence of a will can cause deep emotional pain. A clear will allows procedures to proceed smoothly, scientifically supporting bereaved family members' "mental space" to recover from loss.

Fascinating Facts About Wills

• Two readings of "igon": The word for "will" is commonly read as "yuigon" in everyday speech, but more often as "igon" in legal contexts — an interesting example of the difference between everyday and technical/legal language.
• Leonardo da Vinci's death date: April 15th is also Leonardo da Vinci's birthday. He left a detailed will instructing the inheritance of property by half-siblings and the bequest of personal items to apprentices — even a genius cared deeply about the fate of his legacy.
• The world's oldest wills: Documents resembling wills have been found in ancient Egypt dating back to around 1900 BCE — the desire to properly pass on ownership to the next generation is a universal human concern dating back to the dawn of civilization.
• The challenge of digital assets: A modern issue is the rise of "digital assets" — SNS accounts, online banking, and more. Including access information for these in a will has become an essential part of modern "asset management."
• The power of personal messages: Beyond the division of property, including a personal note explaining "why" assets were divided a certain way, along with words of gratitude, is often the key to mending family bonds.

Tips for Spending Will Day

• To mark April 15th, open just one page of an end-of-life planning notebook. Start not with financial matters, but by writing one line about a value you cherish in life or your gratitude toward family — affirming your own life journey
• Organize your digital assets. Check your smartphone subscriptions and where login information that family might need is kept. Lightening this load creates "mental space" to focus on new activities in the new fiscal year
• Have a positive conversation with someone important about "the future ahead." Redefine the will not as "preparation for death" but as "a project for building a better future," sharing hopes and strengthening trust between you
• Think about your "legacy" — not just money or possessions, but the wisdom and words you want to pass on to others. Finding words to share with new colleagues or juniors this fiscal year can help you redefine your own sense of purpose

The Pen That Writes Hope for Tomorrow Wipes Away a Loved One's Tears and Carries Your Light Into the Future

April 15th is a day to engrave the "preciousness" of the present moment into your heart by considering its end. A will is never a sad farewell — it's proof of how hard you've lived, and the final, greatest act of consideration for those you love. Clearly stating your wishes becomes a guiding light in the darkness for those left behind. Especially if you've just started a new challenge this fiscal year, take a moment to pause and consider what truly matters to you — a clear path to the future will make your steps today more confident and lighter.