--- title: Japan Trademark Nice Classification Guide | EVORIX description: "Japan trademark classification guide: Nice 12th Edition application, similar group codes (類似群コード), Madrid Protocol class issues, and JPO examiner approach." image: https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png --- [Skip to content](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#main-content) [![知的財産事務所エボリクス/EVORIX/大阪/特許・商標・意匠登](https://www.evorix.jp/hs-fs/hubfs/%E7%9F%A5%E7%9A%84%E8%B2%A1%E7%94%A3%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%99%E6%89%80%E3%82%A8%E3%83%9C%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9%20(500%20%C3%97%20250%20px).png?width=500&height=250&name=%E7%9F%A5%E7%9A%84%E8%B2%A1%E7%94%A3%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%99%E6%89%80%E3%82%A8%E3%83%9C%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9%20(500%20%C3%97%20250%20px).png)](https://www.evorix.jp/) - [Services](https://www.evorix.jp/en/contents) Show submenu for Services - [Patent Filing](https://www.evorix.jp/en/patent-service) - [Trademark Registration](https://www.evorix.jp/en/trademark-service) - 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[Contact](https://www.evorix.jp/en/inquiry) Show submenu for Contact - [Consultation Process](https://www.evorix.jp/en/consultation) - [Inquiry Form](https://www.evorix.jp/en/inquiry) - [Contact](https://www.evorix.jp/en/inquiry) [Contact](https://www.evorix.jp/en/inquiry) 2026/05/24 # Japan Trademark Nice Classification: Specifics for Foreign Counsel ![Picture of Takefumi Sugiura – Japanese Patent Attorney](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/4ef5aa3d824852243e3f9a0ef7c7a511) [Takefumi Sugiura – Japanese Patent Attorney](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/author/takefumi-sugiura-japanese-patent-attorney) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics) [Twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics) ![Japan Trademark Nice Classification: Specifics for Foreign Counsel](https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png) Japan trademark classification has unique features that catch foreign counsel off guard: the proprietary Similar Group Code system, JPO's strict goods/services scrutiny, and the practical impossibility of adding classes post-filing. This guide explains the Japan-specific classification framework and strategic considerations. Table of Contents 1. [Japan Nice Classification Overview](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#overview) 2. [Similar Group Codes](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#similar-codes) 3. [Common Classification Issues](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#common-issues) 4. [Madrid Protocol Considerations](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#madrid) 5. [Class Amendments](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#amendments) 6. [Class-Based Fees](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#fees) 7. [FAQ](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics#faq) ## Japan Nice Classification Overview Japan adopted the Nice Classification in 1992 and has progressively aligned with WIPO updates. However, the JPO maintains its own implementation guidelines and an extensive "Examples of Goods and Services" database that often differs from WIPO's general indications. **Key Difference:** Japan uses BOTH the Nice class system AND a separate Similar Group Code (類似群コード) system. While Nice classes are for filing administration, Similar Group Codes drive examination for likelihood of confusion. ## Similar Group Codes Similar Group Codes are 5-character codes (e.g., "25A01" for womenswear) assigned to each good/service in the JPO database. The codes group functionally similar goods/services regardless of Nice class. Examination logic: - **Same Similar Group Code = presumed similar for confusion analysis,** even if different Nice classes - **Different Similar Group Codes ≠ automatically dissimilar,** but the presumption flips ### Example: Cross-Class Similarity A trademark covering "wine" (Class 33, code 28A02) may be considered similar to "wine cups" (Class 21, code 19A01) under Japan analysis IF the codes are deemed cross-related. This catches foreign counsel relying purely on Nice class logic. ## Common Classification Issues ### Issue 1: Broad Class Headings WIPO Nice class headings (e.g., Class 9 "scientific apparatus") are not accepted by JPO. You must specify particular goods. Foreign counsel filing translated US-style identifications often face restriction office actions. ### Issue 2: Software Classification Software classification is particularly tricky: - **Class 9:** Downloadable software, recorded media - **Class 42:** SaaS, software as a service, online platforms - **Cross-class similarity:** Class 9 software and Class 42 SaaS are often considered similar despite different classes ### Issue 3: Retail Services Retail services in Class 35 require specifying the goods being retailed. "Retail services" alone is not accepted. Must be "retail services for \[specific goods\]". ### Issue 4: Color and Slogan Marks Non-traditional marks have additional class considerations. Color-only marks (since 2015) typically require evidence of use; slogan marks must function as source identifiers. ## Madrid Protocol Considerations Madrid Protocol designations to Japan face specific examination practices: - **Class heading challenges:** WIPO's broad class headings often draw provisional refusals in Japan. - **Specification refinement:** Japan examiner may require narrowing of goods/services. - **Provisional refusal response:** Must be filed within 3 months (extendable +1 month). - **Local representative required:** Foreign holder must appoint a Japanese benrishi to respond. **Practical Tip:** Pre-screen your Madrid specification with a Japanese trademark attorney before filing the international application. A 30-minute pre-filing consultation can avoid a 3-month provisional refusal cycle. ## Class Amendments Post-filing amendment rules: | Amendment | Allowed? | Conditions | | --- | --- | --- | | Add new class | No | Must file new application or divisional | | Narrow goods within class | Yes | Anytime during prosecution | | Reword goods (no scope change) | Yes | Reword to align with JPO Examples | | Broaden goods | No | Cannot expand scope post-filing | | Add similar goods | No | Considered broadening | | Divisional application | Yes | Within examination period | ## Class-Based Fees | Fee Type | Per Class | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | | Application fee | ¥3,400 | Plus ¥800/goods item over 22 items | | Registration fee (5-year) | ¥17,200 | Split renewal option | | Registration fee (10-year) | ¥32,900 | Full term | | Renewal (10-year) | ¥40,900 | Per class | | Madrid designation fee | CHF 268+ | Per class via WIPO | Need Japan IP Support? Quote within 24 hours · English/Chinese/Korean/German/French/Spanish/Portuguese [Request a Quote](https://www.evorix.jp/en/inquiry)[Service Overview](https://www.evorix.jp/en/foreign-counsel) ## Frequently Asked Questions Q. Which edition of Nice Classification does Japan use? A. Japan applies the latest Nice Classification (NCL 12th Edition - 2025) but with significant Japanese local modifications. The JPO publishes its own "Examples of Goods and Services" (商品・役務の区分) which deviates from WIPO Nice in detail. Q. What are "Similar Group Codes" (類似群コード)? A. Similar Group Codes (ruijigun-kodo) are 5-digit codes assigned by the JPO to each good/service identifying the "similar group" for likelihood of confusion analysis. Two marks in the same similar group are presumed similar even across different Nice classes. Q. Can I add a class to my Japan trademark application? A. No, you cannot add new classes after filing. You can only narrow goods/services within existing classes. To add a class, file a new application or a divisional application. Q. How are Japan trademark class fees calculated? A. JPO fees scale by number of classes: ¥3,400 per class for application, plus ¥32,900 per class for 10-year renewal (or ¥17,200/class for 5-year split). Multi-class filing reduces per-class overhead vs separate applications. Q. Are Madrid Protocol designations examined the same way in Japan? A. Generally yes, but with notable practical differences. Japan examiners apply the same Similar Group Code analysis to Madrid designations. Common issue: WIPO's broader class headings may be challenged in Japan, requiring restriction. ## Related Resources [Foreign Counsel Hub Complete Japan IP service overview](https://www.evorix.jp/en/foreign-counsel)[Trademark Refusal Response Office action defense](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/responding-to-jpo-provisional-refusal-foreign-counsel)[Get a Quote Multi-class filing cost estimate](https://www.evorix.jp/en/quote) ## Related posts [![](https://www.evorix.jp/hs-fs/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png?height=200&name=EVORIX-logo-rich.png)](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-patent-translation-quality-cost) ## [Japan Patent Translation: Quality vs Cost for Foreign Counsel](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-patent-translation-quality-cost) ![Picture of Takefumi Sugiura – Japanese Patent Attorney](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/4ef5aa3d824852243e3f9a0ef7c7a511) [Takefumi Sugiura – Japanese Patent Attorney](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/author/takefumi-sugiura-japanese-patent-attorney) 2026/05/24 Patent translation quality directly determines the scope of protection you receive in Japan. 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[Read more](https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-customs-ip-enforcement-guide) --- [![知的財産事務所エボリクス/EVORIX/大阪/特許・商標・意匠登](https://www.evorix.jp/hs-fs/hubfs/%E7%9F%A5%E7%9A%84%E8%B2%A1%E7%94%A3%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%99%E6%89%80%E3%82%A8%E3%83%9C%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9%20(500%20%C3%97%20250%20px).png?width=500&height=250&name=%E7%9F%A5%E7%9A%84%E8%B2%A1%E7%94%A3%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%99%E6%89%80%E3%82%A8%E3%83%9C%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9%20(500%20%C3%97%20250%20px).png "知的財産事務所エボリクス/EVORIX/大阪/特許・商標・意匠登")](https://www.evorix.jp) Intellectual Property Law Firm EVORIX   4th Floor, Qus-Hiranomachi Building, 3-1-2 Hiranomachi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 541-0046 Japan Mail: [contact@evorix.jp](mailto:contact@evorix.jp) TEL: +81-6-7777-1884 - [Hague International Design Application](https://www.evorix.jp/hague-design-application) - [Madrid Protocol International Trademark Application](https://www.evorix.jp/madrid-protocol-trademark) - [Amazon IP Infringement Support](https://www.evorix.jp/amazon-infringement) - [About Us](https://www.evorix.jp/about) - [Our Attorneys](https://www.evorix.jp/staff) - [Services](https://www.evorix.jp/contents) - [Consultation Process](https://www.evorix.jp/consultation) - [Blog](https://www.evorix.jp/blog) - [Careers](https://www.evorix.jp/recruit) - [Trademark Portfolio](https://www.evorix.jp/trademark-list) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/%E8%B3%87%E6%96%99/HP-%E3%83%97%E3%83%A9%E3%82%A4%E3%83%90%E3%82%B7%E3%83%BC%E3%83%9D%E3%83%AA%E3%82%B7%E3%83%BC.pdf) - [Contact](https://www.evorix.jp/inquiry) ---   Copyright © 2026, Intellectual Property Law Firm EVORIX® All rights reserved.  ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Takefumi Sugiura – Japanese Patent Attorney", "url" : "https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/author/takefumi-sugiura-japanese-patent-attorney" }, "dateModified" : "2026-05-24T01:13:22.198Z", "datePublished" : "2026-05-24T01:17:18.000Z", "headline" : "Japan Trademark Nice Classification Guide | EVORIX", "image" : [ "https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/%E7%9F%A5%E7%9A%84%E8%B2%A1%E7%94%A3%E4%BA%8B%E5%8B%99%E6%89%80%E3%82%A8%E3%83%9C%E3%83%AA%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9%20(500%20%C3%97%20250%20px).png" }, "name" : "知的財産事務所エボリクス" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "affiliation" : "EVORIX Intellectual Property Firm", "jobTitle" : "Patent Attorney", "name" : "Takefumi Sugiura" }, "datePublished" : "2026-05-24", "description" : "Japan trademark classification guide: Nice 12th Edition application, similar group codes (類似群コード), Madrid Protocol class issues, and JPO examiner approach.", "headline" : "Japan Trademark Nice Classification: Specifics for Foreign Counsel", "image" : "https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png", "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.evorix.jp/en/blog/japan-trademark-nice-classification-specifics", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.evorix.jp/hubfs/EVORIX-logo-rich.png" }, "name" : "EVORIX" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Japan applies the latest Nice Classification (NCL 12th Edition - 2025) but with significant Japanese local modifications. 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