What types of trademarks cannot be registered in Japan?

According to Japan's trademark laws, the following types of marks cannot be registered:

• Marks that violate moral principles or public policy


• Generic terms or marks with common meanings


• Marks featuring flags, emblems, or names of countries, regions, or international organizations


• Marks that lack distinctiveness


• Marks primarily used as surnames


• Marks primarily used as names of geographical locations


• Marks using a person's signature, portrait, or name without permission