Intellectual Property: Domestic
Asia-Pacific Guide 2025 : Japan
Band 1
Contact number
+81 33 273 2600Chambers Review
Abe, Ikubo & Katayama has a market-leading practice with experience in defending multinationals in litigation related to IPinfringement and invalidation actions. The firm takes on high-profile cases regarding patents andoffers strong technical knowledge in such industries as biotechnology, telecommunications and electronics. It has noted expertise in the pharmaceutical and automotive sectors and is highly proficient in representing clients before the Japan Patent Office as well as the IP High Court and the Supreme Court. The team is also able to assist clients with patent portfolio management and protection strategy.
Work Highlights
- Abe, Ikubo & Katayama represented Eisai at the IP High Court in an appeal by Nipro seeking a declaratory judgment for patent non-infringement and invalidity in connection with anti-cancer medication Halaven.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"They have a great talent pool and can provide excellent service by promoting internal discussion across the law firm."
"They have a great talent pool and can provide excellent service by promoting internal discussion across the law firm."
Notable Practitioners
Eiji Katayama is an eminent lawyer whose engineering background serves his patent litigation practice well.
Mami Hino regularly advises leading pharmaceutical clients on patent litigation and transactions, with a particular emphasis on handling invalidity trials. Her work benefits from her extensive experience and background as a pharmacist.
"She has excellent knowledge and a strong background in technology and thus is able to support her clients with complicated matters."
Shimako Kato is sought after for her experience in patent-related disputes. Her background in material engineering enables her to represent clients in highly technical matters.
"Shimako is resolute and reliable."
Junichi Kitahara is a well-known lawyer handling complex commercial disputes for both domestic and international clients. His practice covers the pharmaceutical and technology sectors.
"Junichi Kitahara is passionate to help his clients with complicated matters by challenging the status quo and thus is a trusted lawyer."
Makoto Hattori is dual-qualified in Japan and New York, and represents multinational corporates across a range of patent litigation.