In the 2010s, laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) rapidly gained popularity in Japan as a minimally invasive approach for liver resections. It offers significant advantages, such as reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery. The Glissonean pedicle approach, employed during LH, enables precise anatomical resection, particularly for hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic liver tumors. Innovations in training, including the use of animal models and the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery certification program, have been instrumental in improving surgical expertise. However, complex hepatectomies involving vascular or biliary reconstruction pose substantial technical challenges. Robot-assisted hepatectomy (RAH) has shown great potential for improved precision and visualization, though its high costs and uncertain long-term benefits limit its widespread adoption. Further technological advancements, enhanced training programs, and large-scale comparative trials are necessary to evaluate the long-term efficacy of both LH and RAH.