Studied law at Tokyo Imperial University, and graduated in 1897.
In 1904 became professor of law at Tokyo Imperial University.
In 1919 served as member of the Commission of Responsibilities, which dealt with the issue of war crimes.
In 1921–22 served as member of the Japanese delegation to the Washington naval conference.
Regarding the mandates system under the League of Nations, held the view that the mandatory power had total sovereignty over the mandate territory.