How does the House of Representatives differ from the House of Councillors?

The Japanese Diet consists of two houses with distinct structures and powers. The House of Representatives (lower house) holds greater authority, while the House of Councillors (upper house) serves as a secondary chamber.12

Key Differences

• Term Length and Dissolution: Representatives serve four-year terms, though the house can be dissolved by the cabinet at any time. Councillors serve fixed six-year terms, with half the members elected every three years; this house cannot be dissolved.13
• Electoral System: Representatives are elected via a mixed system of single-member districts and proportional representation. Councillors are elected through a combination of prefectural constituencies and a national proportional representation constituency.13
• Age Requirements: Candidates for the House of Representatives must be at least 25 years old, while those for the House of Councillors must be at least 30.3
• Legislative Power: The lower house holds precedence. If the two houses disagree on the budget, treaties, or the selection of a prime minister, the decision of the House of Representatives prevails. For other legislation, the lower house can override a rejection by the councillors with a two-thirds majority.1