Japan
Region
🌍 Asia
Population
👥 122
Currency
💱 Japanese yen
Languages
🗣️ Japanese
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Embark on a captivating journey to Japan, a land where ancient traditions harmoniously blend with cutting-edge modernity. Discover serene bamboo forests, majestic temples, bustling neon-lit cities, and the unparalleled beauty of Mount Fuji. Indulge in exquisite cuisine, from delicate sushi to savory ramen, and immerse yourself in a culture rich with art, history, and unparalleled hospitality. Experience the magic of Japan, from the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Japan
Continent
Asia
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Japanese
Independence
Japan does not have an official independence day, as it has been an independent nation for centuries.
Top-Level Domain
.jp
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+81
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+09:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Tokyo
ISO Alpha-2
JP
ISO Alpha-3
JPN
UN Code
392
Geographic Coordinates
36,138
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
377,930#62 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
122,650,000#11 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
341.54
Highest Point (m)
3,776 meters (Mount Fuji).
Lowest Point (m)
-4 meters (Hachiro-gata).
Land Use
68.2% forest, 12.8% arable land.
Irrigated Land
25,830 sq km (2012).
Coastline Length
29,751 km.
Climate
Varies from subtropical in the south to cool temperate in the north, with four distinct seasons.
Natural Resources
Fish, some timber, coal, copper, and zinc.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
No land borders
Major Rivers
Shinano, Tone, Ishikari.
Major Lakes
Lake Biwa.
Government Type
Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy.
Administrative Divisions
47 prefectures.
Legal System
Based on civil law with influences from English and US common law.
Chief of State
Emperor Naruhito.
Head of Government
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Cabinet
Cabinet appointed by the Prime Minister.
Elections
Elections are held for the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court and lower courts.
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Diet (House of Representatives and House of Councillors).
Major Political Parties
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), Komeito, Japanese Communist Party (JCP).
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Japanese yen
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4,435.16#4 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
6,837.22#5 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
35,951.04#47 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
0.96
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
26.78
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
71.43
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3.17#93 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
69,477,012
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.45#162 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)
Japan's public debt is very high.
Budget
Japan's annual budget is substantial, encompassing significant government spending.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
920.96#9 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
958.38#6 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Japan holds substantial foreign exchange reserves.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange rates can be found at major banks and online services.
GDP by Sector
Services, industry, and agriculture contribute to Japan's GDP.
Major Industries
Major industries in Japan include automotive, electronics, machinery, and chemicals.
Major Export Partners
Japan's major export partners include China, the United States, and South Korea.
Major Import Partners
Japan's major import partners include China, the United States, and Australia.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)
Japan has a literacy rate of approximately 99%.
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
5.7
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
13.3
Net Migration Rate
Japan's net migration rate is slightly negative.
Median Age
Japan's median age is approximately 48 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
92.3#26 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Japan's urbanization rate is relatively stable.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
84#10 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
HIV/AIDS prevalence in Japan is very low.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
10.74
Ethnic Groups
The population of Japan is predominantly Japanese.
Religions
Major religions in Japan include Shinto and Buddhism.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Japanese
Education
Education System
Structured system with compulsory education from ages 6-15, comprising elementary and junior high school. High school and higher education are optional.
School Life Expectancy (years)
Around 16 years.
Government Education Spending
Around 3.5% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University, Nagoya University, Tohoku University.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Rich culture blending ancient traditions with modern influences, including art, music, literature, and cuisine.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- 元日 (2026-01-01)
- 成人の日 (2026-01-12)
- 建国記念の日 (2026-02-11)
- 天皇誕生日 (2026-02-23)
- 春分の日 (2026-03-20)
- 昭和の日 (2026-04-29)
- 憲法記念日 (2026-05-06)
- みどりの日 (2026-05-04)
- こどもの日 (2026-05-05)
- 海の日 (2026-07-20)
- 山の日 (2026-08-11)
- 敬老の日 (2026-09-21)
Popular Music
J-pop, J-rock, enka (traditional ballad), and international music.
Traditional Food
Sushi, ramen, tempura, udon, soba, miso soup, and various regional specialties.
Sports
Baseball, sumo wrestling, soccer, martial arts (judo, karate, kendo).
Major Festivals
Gion Matsuri, Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Sapporo Snow Festival.
Famous People
Emperor Naruhito, Akihito, Hayao Miyazaki, Akira Kurosawa, Haruki Murakami, Naomi Osaka.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Numerous temples, shrines, gardens, and historical districts.
UNESCO Sites
Himeji Castle, Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, and many more.
Annual Tourist Visits
Millions of annual tourist visits.
Tourism Overview
Popular tourist destination known for its culture, history, natural beauty, and cuisine.
Top Tourist Attractions
Tokyo (e.g., Shibuya, Shinjuku), Kyoto (temples, shrines), Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Osaka Castle.
Famous Cities
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama, Sapporo, Nagoya, Hiroshima.
National Parks
Numerous national parks showcasing diverse landscapes.
Protected Areas
Extensive protected areas covering significant portions of land and sea.
Best Time to Visit
Spring, from March to May, offers pleasant temperatures and the iconic cherry blossoms, making it ideal for exploring cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as enjoying scenic hikes. Autumn, from September to November, provides vibrant fall foliage, cooler weather perfect for sightseeing, and fewer crowds in popular destinations. Summer, though hot and humid, is great for beach activities in Okinawa and attending lively festivals across the country. Winter, from December to February, is suitable for skiing in Hokkaido and enjoying the festive illuminations in major cities. For a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, consider the shoulder months of late spring or early autumn.
Tourist Visa Info
Visa requirements vary depending on nationality; many countries have visa-free entry for tourism.
Visa Requirements Overview
Visa requirements for tourists visiting Japan vary significantly depending on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free entry for short-term stays, typically for tourism purposes, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days. This includes citizens from North America, Europe, Australia, and many Asian countries. However, citizens from some countries will need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your passport with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate before your travel dates. Overstaying a visa or entering without the necessary documentation can lead to serious consequences.
Travel Advisory
Generally safe to travel, but be aware of potential natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons).
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Japan has a high healthcare quality index.
Medical Cost
Medical costs in Japan are considered moderate.
Number of Hospitals
Japan has a large number of hospitals.
Universal Healthcare
Universal healthcare system, known as the Japanese health insurance system, provides coverage to all residents.
Medical Services Overview
Japan offers a comprehensive healthcare system with universal health insurance.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are readily accessible throughout Japan.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
110
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
119
Emergency Number (Fire)
119
Crime Rate
Generally low crime rate.
Safety Index
High safety index.
Military Expenditure
Significant military expenditure.
Emergency Services Overview
Well-equipped and efficient emergency services, including police, fire, and medical response teams.
Safety Overview
Japan is exceptionally safe for tourists, with very low crime rates. Petty theft is uncommon, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like train stations or popular tourist spots. Scams targeting tourists are rare, but be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, as they might attempt to overcharge. While generally very safe, standard precautions apply, such as keeping valuables secure. Public transportation is efficient and safe, even late at night. Emergency services are responsive and readily available.
Military Branches
Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF): Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
Universal electricity access.
Water Access
Universal access to improved water sources.
Sanitation Access
Universal access to improved sanitation facilities.
Railways
Extensive and efficient railway network, including the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Roadways
Extensive, well-maintained road network; includes expressways, national highways, and local roads.
Transportation System
Highly developed and efficient public transportation system, including trains, subways, buses, and domestic flights.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Aomori Airport (AOJ), Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), Fukuoka Airport (FUK), Hakodate Airport (HKD), Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), Ibaraki Airport (IBR)
Ports
Major ports include Yokohama, Kobe, Nagoya, and Tokyo, handling significant international trade and cargo.
Public Transit
Highly developed and efficient public transit systems, including extensive rail networks (Shinkansen, subways), buses, and trams.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
85.54#84 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
High mobile subscriptions per 100 people.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup ecosystem, particularly in areas like AI, robotics, and biotechnology.
Innovation Index
High innovation index.
ICT Development Index
High ICT Development Index.
TV Broadcast Stations
Numerous television broadcast stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Numerous radio broadcast stations.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type A, 100V, 50/60Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7.84#28 of 202
Air Quality Index
Generally good, but can be poor in urban areas due to industrial activity and vehicle emissions. Monitoring and regulations in place.
Water Pollution Level
Generally good, but historical industrial pollution exists. Monitoring and treatment efforts are ongoing. Some areas may face risks.
Renewable Energy Usage
Increasing use of renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, but reliance on fossil fuels remains significant. Policy support for renewables.
Environmental Issues
Air and water pollution (particularly in urban areas and historical industrial sites), deforestation, and management of waste.
Natural Hazards
Earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, volcanic activity, and landslides.
Waste Management
Highly developed, with strong recycling programs, incineration, and landfill management. Focus on reducing waste and increasing recycling rates.
Environmental Agreements
Active participant in numerous international environmental agreements, including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution control.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Extensive network of diplomatic missions worldwide.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
G7, G20, OECD
Major Treaties
Signatory to major international treaties, including climate change, nuclear non-proliferation, and trade agreements.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a significant number of countries.