Abstract: During the transformation period of modern Japan, oldage security presented a transitional characteristic which was different from that of early modern and postwar period. Although “ie” is still the main body of elderly care, the economic source of elderly care changed from family business to favor and employment, etc. Moreover, inheritors bore the responsibility of elderly care as a result of the change from moral rule to regime. The main subject of elderly care changed from inheritors to women, especially housewives. In addition, due to the emphasis on the “ie” regime moral rule and the role of Confucian ethics, oldage security lagged behind in the formulation of legal policies, and institutional system had not been formed.

Key words: Modern Japan, old age security, “ie” regime, filial piety