April 18th is “Invention Day” in Japan when we celebrate the history of Japanese innovation and creativity that has made the nation one of the world's leading players in the global patent industry.
The roots of Invention Day can be traced back to the early Meiji period in the 19th century when Japan embarked on a national programme of modernization and technological advancement. This was marked by the enactment of the Patent Monopoly Act on April 18th, 1885, which laid the foundation for Japan's modern patent system.
Since then, Japan has undergone the most profound social and technological transformation of any modern nation. The ingenuity of its inventors has reshaped industries and improved lives around the world.
Long may this continue. Happy Invention Day!
Check out more on Invention Day at the Japan Patent Office page.