In Japan, there are differences in the purpose and format between postal addresses and real estate addresses. This document explains how each type of address is used and highlights the distinctions between them.
1. Postal Addresses
A postal address is used for the delivery of mail and is the address format commonly used in daily life. It typically begins with a postal code, followed by the “prefecture,” “city/ward,” “town name,” “chome (sub-district),” “ban (block),” and “go (lot number).” It may also include the building name and room number.
- Purpose: To ensure accurate delivery of mail and packages.
- Format: Postal Code → Prefecture → City/Ward → Town Name, Chome, Ban, Go → Building Name, Room Number.
- Characteristics: The postal code helps roughly identify the address, and the address format is based on the delivery zones of the postal service. In areas where the residential address system has been implemented, the format “○ Chome ○ Ban ○ Go” is used.
2. Real Estate Addresses (Lot Number Format)
A real estate address is used for identifying land or buildings for ownership and registration purposes. It is based on “lot numbers,” which differ from residential address formats. Lot numbers are recorded in land ledgers or registration books and are assigned without regard to the order of adjacent properties or buildings.
- Purpose: To accurately identify land and buildings for registration, real estate transactions, and taxation.
- Format: Lot Number Format (e.g., ○○ Lot ○○, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo).
- Characteristics: Unlike the residential address format of “Chome, Ban, Go,” the real estate address uses “Lot” and “Banchi (plot).” Lot numbers may not follow sequential numbering, as they are legal identifiers in land registries. Therefore, real estate addresses do not necessarily match postal addresses.
3. Differences Between Postal Addresses and Real Estate Addresses
- Format Differences:
– Postal Address: Uses residential address formats with Chome, Ban, and Go for day-to-day delivery purposes.
– Real Estate Address: Uses lot numbers as a legal address format for land registries. - Cases of Discrepancy:
In areas where the residential address system has been introduced, postal addresses and real estate addresses may differ. For example, a postal address written as “○ Chome ○ Ban ○ Go” may appear as “○○ Ban” with a different number in real estate registries. - Differences in Use:
Postal addresses are used for mail delivery and everyday address needs, while real estate addresses are used for legal and administrative purposes, such as property registration, sales contracts, and tax procedures.
4. Relationship Between the Residential Address System and Lot Number Format
In areas where the residential address system has been introduced, there is a clear distinction between postal addresses using “Chome, Ban, Go” and the plot number format used in land registries. However, in regions where the residential address system has not been implemented, postal addresses may directly correspond to plot numbers.
Summary
Postal addresses and real estate addresses differ in purpose and format. Postal addresses are used for mail delivery and general address purposes, while real estate addresses (lot number format) are required for legal property registration and transactions. In Japan, the appropriate type of address must be used depending on the context, ensuring clarity and accuracy.