Last updated on October 26, 2025
Yes. Japan allows the use of holograms of deceased artists in live cultural festivals, provided copyright and image rights are respected and proper permissions are obtained under the Copyright Act and Civil Code.
When Memory Meets Technology
The lights dim, the crowd hushes, and suddenly—there they are. A beloved artist, long passed, appears on stage in shimmering holographic form. In Japan, where tradition and innovation often dance together, this kind of performance isn’t just possible—it’s legally permitted. But it comes with strings attached.
Holograms of deceased performers have become a global phenomenon, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge tech. In Japan, a country known for its reverence for ancestors and its embrace of digital artistry, the legal framework supports such performances—if done respectfully and lawfully.
The Legal Framework: Copyright and Image Rights
Japan’s Copyright Act governs the use of creative works, including performances, recordings, and likenesses. Under this law, the rights to a deceased artist’s work—such as songs, choreography, or visual likeness—remain protected for 70 years after death. This means that any use of their image or performance in a hologram must be authorized by the rights holder, typically the estate or designated management.
In addition to copyright, Japan’s Civil Code recognizes the concept of portrait rights, which protect an individual’s image from unauthorized commercial use. While these rights generally expire upon death, posthumous use can still raise ethical and legal concerns, especially if the hologram implies endorsement or misrepresents the artist’s legacy.
Recent Clarifications on AI and Copyright
In May 2024, the Agency for Cultural Affairs published the “General Understanding on AI and Copyright in Japan,” a non-binding but influential document that outlines how AI-generated content—including holograms—interacts with existing copyright law. It emphasizes that AI-generated materials must not infringe on the creative expressions of copyrighted works unless proper licensing is secured.
The document also clarifies that using a deceased artist’s likeness in a hologram, especially for public performance, falls under the “generation/utilization stage” of AI-related copyright use. This stage requires careful assessment of similarity and dependency on original works, and may trigger liability if the hologram reproduces protected content without permission.
Permissions and Ethical Use
To legally use a hologram of a deceased artist in a Japanese cultural festival, organizers must:
- Secure copyright licenses for any music, choreography, or visual content used
- Obtain consent from the artist’s estate or legal representative for use of their likeness
- Ensure the portrayal is respectful and does not mislead the audience
Failure to do so could result in legal action, including claims of copyright infringement or reputational harm.
Culture Meets Compliance
Japan’s cultural festivals are known for their blend of ancient rituals and modern spectacle. Holograms add a futuristic layer to these events, but they must be grounded in legal and ethical practice. The law doesn’t prohibit holographic performances—it simply insists they honor the rights and legacy of the artists they resurrect.
See more on JAPAN
Sources
General Understanding on AI and Copyright in Japan – Agency for Cultural Affairs
https://www.bunka.go.jp/english/policy/copyright/pdf/94055801_01.pdf
2024-05
Frequently Asked Questions on Copyright Term Extension – Agency for Cultural Affairs
https://www.bunka.go.jp/english/policy/copyright/pdf/93468601_03.pdf
2018-12