I am having trouble researching my Japanese Ancestors. My grandmother, Sunako Tajima (born 1934) grew up in Sasebo City in Nagasaki. Her parents were Masura Tajima and Somi Yamaguchi. They had many children. Any help would be appreciated.

Is your grandmother still alive?

If so, she can get the family record from the city office.

Yes, she is, but she doesn't want to travel to Japan. I asked her to see if a family member overseas can get it for us.

If your grandmother knows any relatives who can help you, then it'll be fine but otherwise she has to fill out the document to get "Koseki". If she can get parents "Koseki" or "Joseki", you will know your grandmother's siblings' names and BD.

If you know anybody who can read Japanese, you can get the request form online.

There are more details but I don't know what you want to do so I don't want explain more at this point.