Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Japan
日本国
CapitalTokyo
Population123,366,734
GDP$4.44tn
Area377,972 km²
RegionEast Asia & Pacific
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
In 1603, after decades of civil warfare, the Tokugawa shogunate (a military-led, dynastic government) ushered in a long period of relative political stability and isolation from foreign influence. For more than two centuries, this policy enabled Japan to enjoy a flowering of its indigenous culture. Japan opened its ports after signing the Treaty of Kanagawa with the US in 1854 and began to intensively modernize and industrialize. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan became a regional power that was able to defeat the forces of both China and Russia. It occupied Korea, Formosa (Taiwan), and southern Sakhalin Island. In 1931-32, Japan occupied Manchuria, and in 1937, it launched a full-scale invasion of China. Japan attacked US forces at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941, triggering America's entry into World War II, and Japan soon occupied much of East and Southeast Asia. After its defeat in World War II, the country recovered to become an economic power and a US ally.
While the emperor retains his throne as a symbol of national unity, elected politicians hold the decision-making power. After three decades of unprecedented growth, Japan's economy experienced a major slowdown starting in the 1990s, but the country remains an economic power. In 2011, Japan's strongest-ever earthquake and an accompanying tsunami devastated the northeast part of Honshu, killed thousands, and damaged several nuclear power plants. ABE Shinzo was reelected as prime minister in 2012, and he embarked on ambitious economic and security reforms to improve Japan's economy and bolster the country's international standing. In 2019, ABE became Japan's longest-serving post-war prime minister; he resigned in 2020 and was succeeded by SUGA Yoshihide. KISHIDA Fumio became prime minister in 2021.
Reference: 2021, 2020, 2019, 2012While the emperor retains his throne as a symbol of national unity, elected politicians hold the decision-making power. After three decades of unprecedented growth, Japan's economy experienced a major slowdown starting in the 1990s, but the country remains an economic power. In 2011, Japan's strongest-ever earthquake and an accompanying tsunami devastated the northeast part of Honshu, killed thousands, and damaged several nuclear power plants. ABE Shinzo was reelected as prime minister in 2012, and he embarked on ambitious economic and security reforms to improve Japan's economy and bolster the country's international standing. In 2019, ABE became Japan's longest-serving post-war prime minister; he resigned in 2020 and was succeeded by SUGA Yoshihide. KISHIDA Fumio became prime minister in 2021.
Geography
Location
Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula
Map references
Asia
Area
total: 377,915 sq km
land: 364,485 sq km
water: 13,430 sq km
note: note: includes Bonin Islands (Ogasawara-gunto), Daito-shoto, Minami-jima, Okino-tori-shima, Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto), and Volcano Islands (Kazan-retto)
land: 364,485 sq km
water: 13,430 sq km
note: note: includes Bonin Islands (Ogasawara-gunto), Daito-shoto, Minami-jima, Okino-tori-shima, Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto), and Volcano Islands (Kazan-retto)
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than California
Land boundaries
total: 0 km
Coastline
29,751 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm; between 3 nm and 12 nm in the international straits - La Perouse or Soya, Tsugaru, Osumi, and the Korea and Tsushima Straits
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate
varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
Terrain
mostly rugged and mountainous
Elevation
highest point: Mount Fuji 3,776 m
lowest point: Hachiro-gata -4 m
mean elevation: 438 m
lowest point: Hachiro-gata -4 m
mean elevation: 438 m
Natural resources
negligible mineral resources, fish
note: note: with virtually no natural energy resources, Japan is almost totally dependent on imported sources of energy
note: note: with virtually no natural energy resources, Japan is almost totally dependent on imported sources of energy
Land use
agricultural land: 12.6% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 11.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 0.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 68.3% (2023 est.)
other: 19% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 11.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 0.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 68.3% (2023 est.)
other: 19% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
15,730 sq km (2014)
Reference: 2014Major lakes (area sq km)
fresh water lake(s): Biwa-ko 688 sq km
Population distribution
all primary and secondary regions of high population density lie on the coast; one third of the population resides in and around Tokyo on the central plain (Kanto Plain)
Natural hazards
many dormant and some active volcanoes; about 1,500 seismic occurrences (mostly tremors but occasional severe earthquakes) every year; tsunamis; typhoons
volcanism: both Unzen (1,500 m) and Sakura-jima (1,117 m), which lies near the densely populated city of Kagoshima, have been deemed Decade Volcanoes by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to their explosive history and close proximity to human populations; other notable historically active volcanoes include Asama (Honshu Island's most active volcano), Aso, Bandai, Fuji, Iwo-Jima, Kikai, Kirishima, Komaga-take, Oshima, Suwanosejima, Tokachi, Yake-dake, and Usu; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
volcanism: both Unzen (1,500 m) and Sakura-jima (1,117 m), which lies near the densely populated city of Kagoshima, have been deemed Decade Volcanoes by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to their explosive history and close proximity to human populations; other notable historically active volcanoes include Asama (Honshu Island's most active volcano), Aso, Bandai, Fuji, Iwo-Jima, Kikai, Kirishima, Komaga-take, Oshima, Suwanosejima, Tokachi, Yake-dake, and Usu; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note
note 1: strategic location in northeast Asia; composed of four main islands (the "Home Islands") -- Hokkaido, Honshu (the largest, most populous, and site of Tokyo, the capital), Shikoku, and Kyushu
note 2: a 2023 Geospatial Information Authority of Japan survey detected 100,000 islands and islets, but only the 14,125 islands with a circumference of at least 100 m (330 ft) were officially counted; about 260 of the islands are inhabited
note 3: Japan annually records the most earthquakes in the world; it is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, which is a belt bordering the Pacific Ocean that contains about 75% of the world's volcanoes and up to 90% of the world's earthquakes
Reference: 2023note 2: a 2023 Geospatial Information Authority of Japan survey detected 100,000 islands and islets, but only the 14,125 islands with a circumference of at least 100 m (330 ft) were officially counted; about 260 of the islands are inhabited
note 3: Japan annually records the most earthquakes in the world; it is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, which is a belt bordering the Pacific Ocean that contains about 75% of the world's volcanoes and up to 90% of the world's earthquakes
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Japanese (singular and plural)
adjective: Japanese
adjective: Japanese
Ethnic groups
Japanese 97.5%, Chinese 0.6%, Vietnam 0.4%, South Korean 0.3%, other 1.2% (includes Filipino, Brazilian, Nepalese, Indonesian, American, and Taiwanese) (2022 est.)
note: note: data represent population by nationality; up to 230,000 Brazilians of Japanese origin migrated to Japan in the 1990s to work in industries; some have returned to Brazil
Reference: 2022note: note: data represent population by nationality; up to 230,000 Brazilians of Japanese origin migrated to Japan in the 1990s to work in industries; some have returned to Brazil
Languages
Languages: Japanese
major-language sample(s): 必要不可欠な基本情報の源、ワールド・ファクトブック(Japanese)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
major-language sample(s): 必要不可欠な基本情報の源、ワールド・ファクトブック(Japanese)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions
Shintoism 48.6%, Buddhism 46.4%, Christianity 1.1%, other 4% (2021 est.)
note: note: total adherents among persons claiming a religious affiliation
Reference: 2021note: note: total adherents among persons claiming a religious affiliation
Age structure
0-14 years: 12.1% (male 7,701,196/female 7,239,389)
15-64 years: 58.4% (male 36,197,840/female 35,777,966)
65 years and over: 29.5% (2024 est.) (male 15,976,233/female 20,309,321)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 58.4% (male 36,197,840/female 35,777,966)
65 years and over: 29.5% (2024 est.) (male 15,976,233/female 20,309,321)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 71.2 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 20.8 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 50.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 2 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 20.8 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 50.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 2 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 49.9 years (2024 est.)
male: 48.3 years
female: 51.3 years
Reference: 2024male: 48.3 years
female: 51.3 years
Population growth rate
-0.43% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
6.9 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
11.9 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
all primary and secondary regions of high population density lie on the coast; one third of the population resides in and around Tokyo on the central plain (Kanto Plain)
Major urban areas - population
37.194 million TOKYO (capital), 19.013 million Osaka, 9.569 million Nagoya, 5.490 million Kitakyushu-Fukuoka, 2.937 million Shizuoka-Hamamatsu, 2.666 million Sapporo (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
30.7 years (2018 est.)
Reference: 2018Maternal mortality ratio
3 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
0.68 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: total: total: 99.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 0.9% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022unimproved: total: total: 0.9% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 10.8% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 23.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 23.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
2.65 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
12.7 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020Sanitation facility access
improved: total: total: 99.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 0.1% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022unimproved: total: total: 0.1% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
4.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 8.36 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 1.35 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.29 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 1.63 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 5.09 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 1.35 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.29 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 1.63 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 5.09 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 15.5% (2025 est.)
male: 24.4% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
male: 24.4% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
46.8% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 16 years (2022 est.)
male: 16 years (2022 est.)
female: 16 years (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022male: 16 years (2022 est.)
female: 16 years (2022 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 60,361 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 29,244 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 505 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 29,244 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 505 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of government | Sanae Takaichi | — | 2025-10-21 | Current | Reported |
| Head of state | Naruhito | — | 2019-05-01 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Japan
local long form: Nihon-koku/Nippon-koku
local short form: Nihon/Nippon
etymology: the English word for Japan comes from the Chinese name for the country, Cipangu; both Nihon and Nippon come from the Japanese words nichi, or "sun," and hon, or "origin," which is frequently translated as "Land of the Rising Sun"
conventional short form: Japan
local long form: Nihon-koku/Nippon-koku
local short form: Nihon/Nippon
etymology: the English word for Japan comes from the Chinese name for the country, Cipangu; both Nihon and Nippon come from the Japanese words nichi, or "sun," and hon, or "origin," which is frequently translated as "Land of the Rising Sun"
Capital
name: Tokyo
geographic coordinates: 35 41 N, 139 45 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally known as Edo, meaning "estuary" because of its location on a bay; the name was changed to Tokyo, meaning "eastern capital," in 1868, as a contrast to Kyoto, the previous capital to the west
geographic coordinates: 35 41 N, 139 45 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally known as Edo, meaning "estuary" because of its location on a bay; the name was changed to Tokyo, meaning "eastern capital," in 1868, as a contrast to Kyoto, the previous capital to the west
Administrative divisions
47 prefectures; Aichi, Akita, Aomori, Chiba, Ehime, Fukui, Fukuoka, Fukushima, Gifu, Gunma, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Hyogo, Ibaraki, Ishikawa, Iwate, Kagawa, Kagoshima, Kanagawa, Kochi, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Mie, Miyagi, Miyazaki, Nagano, Nagasaki, Nara, Niigata, Oita, Okayama, Okinawa, Osaka, Saga, Saitama, Shiga, Shimane, Shizuoka, Tochigi, Tokushima, Tokyo, Tottori, Toyama, Wakayama, Yamagata, Yamaguchi, Yamanashi
Legal system
civil law system based on German model; also reflects Anglo-American influence and Japanese traditions; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
Constitution
history: previous 1890; latest approved 6 October 1946, adopted 3 November 1946, effective 3 May 1947
amendment process: proposed by the Diet; passage requires approval by at least two-thirds majority of both houses of the Diet and approval by majority in a referendum
Reference: 1947, 1946amendment process: proposed by the Diet; passage requires approval by at least two-thirds majority of both houses of the Diet and approval by majority in a referendum
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Japan
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Japan
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: Emperor NARUHITO (since 1 May 2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Sanae TAKAICHI (since 21 October 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; the leader of the majority party or majority coalition in the House of Representatives usually becomes prime minister
election results: 2025: Sanae TAKAICHI (LDP) elected prime minister on 21 October 2025; upper house vote - 125 of 171 votes (runoff); lower house vote - 237 of 386 votes
2024: Shigeru ISHIBA (LDP) elected prime minister on 27 September 2024; upper house vote - 143 of 242 votes; lower house vote - 291 of 461 votes
note: note: Shigeru ISHIBA resigned as prime minister on 7 September 2025; the party vote on the new prime minister is expected in early October 2025
Reference: 2025, 2024, 2019head of government: Prime Minister Sanae TAKAICHI (since 21 October 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; the leader of the majority party or majority coalition in the House of Representatives usually becomes prime minister
election results: 2025: Sanae TAKAICHI (LDP) elected prime minister on 21 October 2025; upper house vote - 125 of 171 votes (runoff); lower house vote - 237 of 386 votes
2024: Shigeru ISHIBA (LDP) elected prime minister on 27 September 2024; upper house vote - 143 of 242 votes; lower house vote - 291 of 461 votes
note: note: Shigeru ISHIBA resigned as prime minister on 7 September 2025; the party vote on the new prime minister is expected in early October 2025
Legislative branch
legislature name: National Diet (Kokkai)
legislative structure: bicameral
legislative structure: bicameral
Legislative branch - lower chamber
chamber name: House of Representatives (Shugiin)
number of seats: 465 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 4 years
most recent election date: 7/20/2025
parties elected and seats per party: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) (191); Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (148); Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party) (38); Democratic Party for the People (28); Komeito (24); Other (36)
percentage of women in chamber: 15.7%
expected date of next election: October 2028
Reference: 2028, 2025number of seats: 465 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 4 years
most recent election date: 7/20/2025
parties elected and seats per party: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) (191); Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (148); Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party) (38); Democratic Party for the People (28); Komeito (24); Other (36)
percentage of women in chamber: 15.7%
expected date of next election: October 2028
Legislative branch - upper chamber
chamber name: House of Councillors (Sangiin)
number of seats: 248 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: partial renewal
term in office: 6 years
most recent election date: 10/27/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) (39); Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (22); Democratic Party for the People (17); Sanseito (14); Komeito (8); Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party) (7); Independents (8); Other (10)
percentage of women in chamber: 29.4%
expected date of next election: June 2028
Reference: 2028, 2024number of seats: 248 (all directly elected)
electoral system: mixed system
scope of elections: partial renewal
term in office: 6 years
most recent election date: 10/27/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) (39); Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (22); Democratic Party for the People (17); Sanseito (14); Komeito (8); Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party) (7); Independents (8); Other (10)
percentage of women in chamber: 29.4%
expected date of next election: June 2028
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court or Saiko saibansho (consists of the chief justice and 14 associate justices)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice designated by the Cabinet and appointed by the monarch; associate justices appointed by the Cabinet and confirmed by the monarch; all justices are reviewed in a popular referendum during the first general election of the House of Representatives after each judge's appointment and every 10 years afterward
subordinate courts: 8 High Courts (Koto-saiban-sho), each with a Family Court (Katei-saiban-sho); 50 District Courts (Chiho saibansho), with 203 additional branches; 438 Summary Courts (Kani saibansho)
note: note: the Supreme Court has jurisdiction in constitutional issues
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice designated by the Cabinet and appointed by the monarch; associate justices appointed by the Cabinet and confirmed by the monarch; all justices are reviewed in a popular referendum during the first general election of the House of Representatives after each judge's appointment and every 10 years afterward
subordinate courts: 8 High Courts (Koto-saiban-sho), each with a Family Court (Katei-saiban-sho); 50 District Courts (Chiho saibansho), with 203 additional branches; 438 Summary Courts (Kani saibansho)
note: note: the Supreme Court has jurisdiction in constitutional issues
Political parties
Conservative Party of Japan or CPJ
Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan or CDP
Democratic Party for the People or DPFP or DPP
Japan Communist Party or JCP
Japan Innovation Party or Nippon Ishin no kai or Ishin
Komeito or Komei
Liberal Democratic Party or LDP
Okinawa Social Mass Party or Okinawa Whirlwind or OW
Party to Protect the People from NHK or NHK
Reiwa Shinsengumi
Sanseito Party
Social Democratic Party or SDP
Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan or CDP
Democratic Party for the People or DPFP or DPP
Japan Communist Party or JCP
Japan Innovation Party or Nippon Ishin no kai or Ishin
Komeito or Komei
Liberal Democratic Party or LDP
Okinawa Social Mass Party or Okinawa Whirlwind or OW
Party to Protect the People from NHK or NHK
Reiwa Shinsengumi
Sanseito Party
Social Democratic Party or SDP
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador YAMADA Shigeo (since 27 February 2024)
chancery: 2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 238-6700
FAX: [1] (202) 328-2187
email address and website: emb-consulate.dc@ws.mofa.go.jp
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html
consulate(s) general: Chicago
consulate(s): Anchorage (AK), Atlanta, Boston, Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Hagatna (Guam), Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Portland (OR), San Francisco, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands), Seattle (WA)
Reference: 2024chancery: 2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 238-6700
FAX: [1] (202) 328-2187
email address and website: emb-consulate.dc@ws.mofa.go.jp
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html
consulate(s) general: Chicago
consulate(s): Anchorage (AK), Atlanta, Boston, Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Hagatna (Guam), Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Portland (OR), San Francisco, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands), Seattle (WA)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador George GLASS (since 17 July 2025)
embassy: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
mailing address: 9800 Tokyo Place, Washington DC 20521-9800
telephone: [81] (03) 3224-5000
FAX: [81] (03) 3224-5856
email address and website: TokyoACS@state.gov
https://jp.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
consulate(s): Fukuoka, Nagoya
embassy: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
mailing address: 9800 Tokyo Place, Washington DC 20521-9800
telephone: [81] (03) 3224-5000
FAX: [81] (03) 3224-5856
email address and website: TokyoACS@state.gov
https://jp.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
consulate(s): Fukuoka, Nagoya
International organization participation
ADB, AfDB (nonregional member), APEC, Arctic Council (observer), ARF, ASEAN (dialogue partner), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE (observer), CERN (observer), CICA (observer), CP, CPLP (associate), EAS, EBRD, EITI (implementing country), FAO, FATF, G-5, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAIA (observer), MIGA, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, PIF (partner), Quad, SAARC (observer), SELEC (observer), SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNHRC, UNIDO, UNMISS, UNOOSA, UNRWA, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Independence
3 May 1947 (current constitution adopted as amendment to Meiji Constitution); notable earlier dates: 11 February 660 B.C. (mythological date of Emperor JIMMU founding the nation); 29 November 1890 (Meiji Constitution provides for constitutional monarchy)
Reference: 1947National holiday
Birthday of Emperor NARUHITO, 23 February (1960)
note: note: celebrates the birthday of the current emperor
Reference: 1960note: note: celebrates the birthday of the current emperor
Flag
description: white with a large red disk that symbolizes the sun without rays, in the center
history: the current flag was adopted in 1854, but a sun flag has been in use in Japan since at least 1184; the sun has long been a national symbol: according to tradition, the sun goddess Amaterasu founded the country in the 7th century B.C.
history: the current flag was adopted in 1854, but a sun flag has been in use in Japan since at least 1184; the sun has long been a national symbol: according to tradition, the sun goddess Amaterasu founded the country in the 7th century B.C.
National symbol(s)
red sun disc, chrysanthemum
National color(s)
red, white
National coat of arms
the Kikumon is the Japanese emperor's family coat of arms and dates from 1183; the Imperial chrysanthemum emblem (菊の御紋, kikunogomon) is a yellow or orange chrysanthemum with black or red outlines and background; a central disc is surrounded by a front set of 16 petals; a rear set of 16 petals are half-staggered in relation to the front set and are visible at the edges of the flower
National anthem(s)
title: "Kimigayo" (“His Majesty’s Reign)
lyrics/music: unknown/Hiromori HAYASHI
history: adopted 1999; unofficial national anthem since 1883; oldest anthem lyrics in the world, dating to the 10th century or earlier; some oppose the anthem because of its association with militarism and worship of the emperor
Reference: 1999lyrics/music: unknown/Hiromori HAYASHI
history: adopted 1999; unofficial national anthem since 1883; oldest anthem lyrics in the world, dating to the 10th century or earlier; some oppose the anthem because of its association with militarism and worship of the emperor
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 26 (21 cultural, 5 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area (c); Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara (c); Himeji-jo (c); Shiretoko (n); Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan (c); Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan (c); Yakushima (n); Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) (c); Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) (c); Shirakami-Sanchi (n); Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama (c); Itsukushima Shinto Shrine (c); Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara (c); Shrines and Temples of Nikko (c); Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu (c); Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range (c); Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land (c); Ogasawara Islands (n); Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region (c); Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region (c); Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island (n); Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan (c)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area (c); Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara (c); Himeji-jo (c); Shiretoko (n); Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan (c); Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan (c); Yakushima (n); Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) (c); Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) (c); Shirakami-Sanchi (n); Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama (c); Itsukushima Shinto Shrine (c); Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara (c); Shrines and Temples of Nikko (c); Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu (c); Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range (c); Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land (c); Ogasawara Islands (n); Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region (c); Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region (c); Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island (n); Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan (c)
Government & Official Links
No official institutional links have yet been verified for this country.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Diet | — | — | — |
Economy
Economic overview
second-largest East Asian economy; trade-oriented and highly diversified; high public debt levels; following years of near-zero interest rates, gradual increases to address inflation and depreciation of yen; strong rebound in tourism; aging population poses challenges to labor force participation
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $5.715 trillion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $5.71 trillion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $5.627 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $5.71 trillion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $5.627 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $46,100 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $45,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $45,000 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $45,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $45,000 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 0.9% (2023 est.)
industry: 28.6% (2023 est.)
services: 69.8% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2023industry: 28.6% (2023 est.)
services: 69.8% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 55.5% (2022 est.)
government consumption: 21.6% (2022 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.3% (2022 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.5% (2022 est.)
exports of goods and services: 21.5% (2022 est.)
imports of goods and services: -25.3% (2022 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2022government consumption: 21.6% (2022 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.3% (2022 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.5% (2022 est.)
exports of goods and services: 21.5% (2022 est.)
imports of goods and services: -25.3% (2022 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
rice, milk, sugar beets, vegetables, eggs, chicken, potatoes, onions, cabbages, pork (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
motor vehicles, electronic equipment, machine tools, steel and nonferrous metals, ships, chemicals, textiles, processed foods
Industrial production growth rate
1.4% (2023 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2023note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
69.382 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 3.9% (2024 est.)
male: 4.2% (2024 est.)
female: 3.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 4.2% (2024 est.)
female: 3.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2020: 32.3 (2020 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2020note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Average household expenditures
on food: 15.8% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 2.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 2.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 2.4% (2020 est.)
highest 10%: 23.9% (2020 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2020highest 10%: 23.9% (2020 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 0.1% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 0.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 0.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $661.986 billion (2022 est.)
expenditures: $897.03 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenditures (excluding grants and social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2022expenditures: $897.03 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenditures (excluding grants and social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2022: 215.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: $194.257 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: $156.592 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $90.21 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: $156.592 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $90.21 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $922.447 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $923.488 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $922.813 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $923.488 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $922.813 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 19%, China 18%, Taiwan 6%, S. Korea 6%, Hong Kong 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
cars, integrated circuits, machinery, vehicle parts/accessories, construction vehicles (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $965.047 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $996.364 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.081 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $996.364 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.081 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
China 22%, USA 11%, Australia 8%, UAE 5%, Saudi Arabia 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
crude petroleum, natural gas, coal, integrated circuits, broadcasting equipment (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $1.231 trillion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $1.295 trillion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $1.228 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $1.295 trillion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $1.228 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: yen (JPY) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 151.366 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 140.491 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 131.498 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 109.754 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 106.775 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 151.366 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 140.491 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 131.498 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 109.754 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 106.775 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: $194.257 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: $156.592 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $90.21 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: $156.592 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $90.21 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $922.447 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $923.488 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $922.813 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $923.488 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $922.813 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 19%, China 18%, Taiwan 6%, S. Korea 6%, Hong Kong 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
cars, integrated circuits, machinery, vehicle parts/accessories, construction vehicles (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $965.047 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $996.364 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.081 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $996.364 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.081 trillion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
China 22%, USA 11%, Australia 8%, UAE 5%, Saudi Arabia 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
crude petroleum, natural gas, coal, integrated circuits, broadcasting equipment (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 361.617 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 902.769 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 41.79 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 902.769 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 41.79 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 65.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
nuclear: 8.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 10.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 1.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 7.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
geothermal: 0.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 6.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023nuclear: 8.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 10.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 1.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 7.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
geothermal: 0.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 6.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Nuclear energy
Number of operational nuclear reactors: 14 (2025)
Number of nuclear reactors under construction: 2 (2025)
Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 12.63GW (2025 est.)
Percent of total electricity production: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Number of nuclear reactors permanently shut down: 27 (2025)
Reference: 2025, 2023Number of nuclear reactors under construction: 2 (2025)
Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 12.63GW (2025 est.)
Percent of total electricity production: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Number of nuclear reactors permanently shut down: 27 (2025)
Coal
production: 27.657 million metric tons (2023 est.)
consumption: 197.612 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 1.615 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 170.874 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 350 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 197.612 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 1.615 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 170.874 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 350 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
total petroleum production: 8,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 3.14 million bbl/day (2024 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 44.115 million barrels (2021 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2021refined petroleum consumption: 3.14 million bbl/day (2024 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 44.115 million barrels (2021 est.)
Natural gas
production: 2.019 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
consumption: 88.317 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
exports: 271.607 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
imports: 85.003 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 20.898 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021consumption: 88.317 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
exports: 271.607 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
imports: 85.003 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 20.898 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 129.504 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 59.758 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
3 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 10.8% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 23.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 23.4% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
2.65 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
12.7 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020Obesity - adult prevalence rate
4.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 15.5% (2025 est.)
male: 24.4% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
male: 24.4% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 16 years (2022 est.)
male: 16 years (2022 est.)
female: 16 years (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022male: 16 years (2022 est.)
female: 16 years (2022 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
civil law system based on German model; also reflects Anglo-American influence and Japanese traditions; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court or Saiko saibansho (consists of the chief justice and 14 associate justices)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice designated by the Cabinet and appointed by the monarch; associate justices appointed by the Cabinet and confirmed by the monarch; all justices are reviewed in a popular referendum during the first general election of the House of Representatives after each judge's appointment and every 10 years afterward
subordinate courts: 8 High Courts (Koto-saiban-sho), each with a Family Court (Katei-saiban-sho); 50 District Courts (Chiho saibansho), with 203 additional branches; 438 Summary Courts (Kani saibansho)
note: note: the Supreme Court has jurisdiction in constitutional issues
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court chief justice designated by the Cabinet and appointed by the monarch; associate justices appointed by the Cabinet and confirmed by the monarch; all justices are reviewed in a popular referendum during the first general election of the House of Representatives after each judge's appointment and every 10 years afterward
subordinate courts: 8 High Courts (Koto-saiban-sho), each with a Family Court (Katei-saiban-sho); 50 District Courts (Chiho saibansho), with 203 additional branches; 438 Summary Courts (Kani saibansho)
note: note: the Supreme Court has jurisdiction in constitutional issues
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF): Ground Self-Defense Force (Rikujou Jieitai, GSDF; includes aviation), Maritime Self-Defense Force (Kaijou Jieitai, MSDF; includes naval aviation), Air Self-Defense Force (Koukuu Jieitai, ASDF) (2025)
note: note: the Coast Guard is under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; it is barred by law from operating as a military force, but in times of conflict Article 80 of the 1954 Self-Defense Forces Act permits the transfer of control of the coast guard to the Ministry of Defense with Cabinet approval
Reference: 2025, 1954note: note: the Coast Guard is under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; it is barred by law from operating as a military force, but in times of conflict Article 80 of the 1954 Self-Defense Forces Act permits the transfer of control of the coast guard to the Ministry of Defense with Cabinet approval
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 1.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 1.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 1% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1% of GDP (2020 est.)
note: note: the Japanese Government in 2022 pledged to increase defense expenditures to 2% of GDP in line with NATO standards by March 2028; if the planned increase occurs, Japan would have the world's third largest defense budget
Reference: 2028, 2024, 2023, 2022Military Expenditures 2023: 1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 1.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 1% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1% of GDP (2020 est.)
note: note: the Japanese Government in 2022 pledged to increase defense expenditures to 2% of GDP in line with NATO standards by March 2028; if the planned increase occurs, Japan would have the world's third largest defense budget
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 230-240,000 active Self Defense Forces (145-150,000 Ground; 40-45,000 Maritime; 40-45,000 Air) (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the JSDF is equipped with a mix of imported and domestically produced equipment; Japan has a robust defense industry and is capable of producing a wide range of air, ground, and naval weapons systems; the majority of its weapons imports are from the US and some domestically produced weapons are US-origin and manufactured under license (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18-32 years of age for voluntary military service for men and women; no conscription (2024)
note: note: as of 2023, women made up about 9% of the military's full-time personnel
Reference: 2024, 2023note: note: as of 2023, women made up about 9% of the military's full-time personnel
Military deployments
approximately 200 Djibouti (2024)
Reference: 2024Military - note
the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) has a range of missions, including territorial defense, monitoring the country’s air and maritime spaces, countering piracy and terrorism, and conducting humanitarian operations; the JSDF exercises regularly with the US military and increasingly with other regional countries, including Australia and the Philippines
Japan’s alliance with the US is one of the cornerstones of the country’s security, as well as a large component of the US security posture in Asia; the US-Japan mutual defense treaty grants the US the right to base US military forces in Japan, including aircraft and ships, in return for US security guarantees; the Japanese Government provides approximately $3 billion on average per year to offset the cost of stationing US forces in Japan; in addition, it pays compensation to localities hosting US troops, rent for bases, and costs for new facilities to support the US presence; Japan also has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US, a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation
Japan was disarmed after its defeat in World War II; shortly after the Korean War began in 1950, US occupation forces in Japan created a 75,000-member lightly armed force called the National Police Reserve; the JSDF was founded in 1954; Article 9 of Japan’s 1947 constitution renounced the use of force as a means of settling international disputes; however, Japan has interpreted Article 9 to mean that it can maintain a military for national defense purposes and, since 1991, has allowed the JSDF to participate in noncombat roles overseas in a number of UN peacekeeping missions and in the US-led coalition in Iraq; in 2014-2015, the Japanese Government reinterpreted the constitution as allowing for "collective self-defense," described as the use of force on others’ behalf if Japan’s security was threatened; in 2022, the government released security policy documents that declared Japan’s intention to develop "counterstrike” capabilities, including armed drones and cruise missiles, and outlined plans to increase Japan’s security-related expenditures to 2% of GDP (2025)
Reference: 2025, 2022, 2015, 2014Japan’s alliance with the US is one of the cornerstones of the country’s security, as well as a large component of the US security posture in Asia; the US-Japan mutual defense treaty grants the US the right to base US military forces in Japan, including aircraft and ships, in return for US security guarantees; the Japanese Government provides approximately $3 billion on average per year to offset the cost of stationing US forces in Japan; in addition, it pays compensation to localities hosting US troops, rent for bases, and costs for new facilities to support the US presence; Japan also has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US, a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation
Japan was disarmed after its defeat in World War II; shortly after the Korean War began in 1950, US occupation forces in Japan created a 75,000-member lightly armed force called the National Police Reserve; the JSDF was founded in 1954; Article 9 of Japan’s 1947 constitution renounced the use of force as a means of settling international disputes; however, Japan has interpreted Article 9 to mean that it can maintain a military for national defense purposes and, since 1991, has allowed the JSDF to participate in noncombat roles overseas in a number of UN peacekeeping missions and in the US-led coalition in Iraq; in 2014-2015, the Japanese Government reinterpreted the constitution as allowing for "collective self-defense," described as the use of force on others’ behalf if Japan’s security was threatened; in 2022, the government released security policy documents that declared Japan’s intention to develop "counterstrike” capabilities, including armed drones and cruise missiles, and outlined plans to increase Japan’s security-related expenditures to 2% of GDP (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador YAMADA Shigeo (since 27 February 2024)
chancery: 2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 238-6700
FAX: [1] (202) 328-2187
email address and website: emb-consulate.dc@ws.mofa.go.jp
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html
consulate(s) general: Chicago
consulate(s): Anchorage (AK), Atlanta, Boston, Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Hagatna (Guam), Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Portland (OR), San Francisco, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands), Seattle (WA)
Reference: 2024chancery: 2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 238-6700
FAX: [1] (202) 328-2187
email address and website: emb-consulate.dc@ws.mofa.go.jp
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html
consulate(s) general: Chicago
consulate(s): Anchorage (AK), Atlanta, Boston, Denver (CO), Detroit (MI), Hagatna (Guam), Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville (TN), New York, Portland (OR), San Francisco, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands), Seattle (WA)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador George GLASS (since 17 July 2025)
embassy: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
mailing address: 9800 Tokyo Place, Washington DC 20521-9800
telephone: [81] (03) 3224-5000
FAX: [81] (03) 3224-5856
email address and website: TokyoACS@state.gov
https://jp.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
consulate(s): Fukuoka, Nagoya
embassy: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
mailing address: 9800 Tokyo Place, Washington DC 20521-9800
telephone: [81] (03) 3224-5000
FAX: [81] (03) 3224-5856
email address and website: TokyoACS@state.gov
https://jp.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
consulate(s): Fukuoka, Nagoya
International organization participation
ADB, AfDB (nonregional member), APEC, Arctic Council (observer), ARF, ASEAN (dialogue partner), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE (observer), CERN (observer), CICA (observer), CP, CPLP (associate), EAS, EBRD, EITI (implementing country), FAO, FATF, G-5, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAIA (observer), MIGA, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, PIF (partner), Quad, SAARC (observer), SELEC (observer), SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNHRC, UNIDO, UNMISS, UNOOSA, UNRWA, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| G20 (G20) | member | — |
| Group of Seven (G7) | member | 1977-00-00 |
| OECD (OECD) | member | — |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1956-12-18 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | 1995-01-01 |
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ADB, AfDB (nonregional member), APEC, Arctic Council (observer), ARF, ASEAN (dialogue partner), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE (observer), CERN (observer), CICA (observer), CP, CPLP (associate), EAS, EBRD, EITI (implementing country), FAO, FATF, G-5, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAIA (observer), MIGA, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, PIF (partner), Quad, SAARC (observer), SELEC (observer), SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNHRC, UNIDO, UNMISS, UNOOSA, UNRWA, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 60,361 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 29,244 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 505 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 29,244 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 505 (2024 est.)
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
JA
Airports
280 (2025)
Heliports
3,036 (2025)
Railways
total: 27,311 km (2015)
standard gauge: 4,800 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (4,800 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 124 km (2015) 1.372-m gauge (124 km electrified)
dual gauge: 132 km (2015) 1.435-1.067-m gauge (132 km electrified)
note: 22,207 km 1.067-mm gauge (15,430 km electrified)
48 km 0.762-m gauge (48 km electrified)
Reference: 2015standard gauge: 4,800 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (4,800 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 124 km (2015) 1.372-m gauge (124 km electrified)
dual gauge: 132 km (2015) 1.435-1.067-m gauge (132 km electrified)
note: 22,207 km 1.067-mm gauge (15,430 km electrified)
48 km 0.762-m gauge (48 km electrified)
Merchant marine
total: 5,229 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 166, container ship 49, general cargo 1,893, oil tanker 666, other 2,455
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 166, container ship 49, general cargo 1,893, oil tanker 666, other 2,455
Ports
total ports: 163 (2024)
large: 11
medium: 26
small: 54
very small: 71
size unknown: 1
ports with oil terminals: 99
key ports: Kawasaki Ko, Kobe, Mikawa, Nagasaki, Nagoya Ko, Onomichi-Itozaki, Osaka, Tokyo Ko, Wakamatsu Ko, Wakayama-Shimotsu Ko, Yokohama Ko
Reference: 2024large: 11
medium: 26
small: 54
very small: 71
size unknown: 1
ports with oil terminals: 99
key ports: Kawasaki Ko, Kobe, Mikawa, Nagasaki, Nagoya Ko, Onomichi-Itozaki, Osaka, Tokyo Ko, Wakamatsu Ko, Wakayama-Shimotsu Ko, Yokohama Ko
Environment
Environmental issues
air pollution from power plants results in acid rain; acidification of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality; waste management issues; ongoing environmental clean-up in small area of Fukushima after nuclear accident in 2011
Reference: 2011International environmental agreements
party to: Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Seals, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Reference: 2006signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
Land use
agricultural land: 12.6% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 11.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 0.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 68.3% (2023 est.)
other: 19% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 11.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 0.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 68.3% (2023 est.)
other: 19% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 92% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: -0.25% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: -0.25% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 960.23 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 367.144 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 403.042 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 190.043 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 367.144 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 403.042 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 190.043 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
10.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Methane emissions
energy: 214.7 kt (2022-2024 est.)
agriculture: 972.8 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 208.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 22.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022, 2021, 2019agriculture: 972.8 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 208.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 22.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 42.72 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 11.5% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 11.5% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 13.5 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 13 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 53 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 13 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 53 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
430 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Geoparks
total global geoparks and regional networks: 10
global geoparks and regional networks: Aso UNESCO; Hakusan Tedorigawa; Itoigawa; Izu Peninsula; Mt. Apoi; Muroto; Oki Islands; San'in Kaigan; Toya - Usu; Unzen (2023)
Reference: 2023global geoparks and regional networks: Aso UNESCO; Hakusan Tedorigawa; Itoigawa; Izu Peninsula; Mt. Apoi; Muroto; Oki Islands; San'in Kaigan; Toya - Usu; Unzen (2023)
Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 59.758 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48 (2023 est.)
Broadcast media
a mix of public and commercial TV and radio stations; 5 national terrestrial TV networks including 1 public broadcaster; large number of radio and TV stations; satellite and cable services provide access to international channels (2023)
Reference: 2023Internet country code
.jp
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 127,076,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 126,972,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 126,811,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 126,633,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 126,261,000 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 125,681,593 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 125,124,989 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 124,516,650 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 123,975,371 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 123,366,734 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $5,110,357,383,254 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $5,038,231,631,661 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $5,154,293,721,630 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $5,245,755,000,479 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $5,189,197,543,645 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $5,225,933,520,753 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $4,447,976,207,315 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $4,384,854,269,962 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $4,190,008,188,359 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $4,435,162,999,977 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 3,289,042 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 3,409,529 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 710,783 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 911,486 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 846,780 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 864,518 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 909,212 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 943,736 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 926,826 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 1,008,173 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 314,732 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 322,564 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 320,601 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 318,190 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 42,001 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -34,996 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 175,003 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 175,003 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 153,357 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 140,579 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 123,366,734 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 122,427,731 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 123,802,000 | 2024 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 3,409,529 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 2.8% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 1,008,173 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | 140,579 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees hosted | 42,450 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Asylum seekers hosted | 22,647 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 56 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 91 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.847 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | 1.431 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 1.350 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 1.742 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 1.662 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 1.134 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 0.810 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Yes Legal since 1882; + UN decl. sign. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No No Proposed in 2023. Adult adoption is practiced as an alternative. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Yes Yes The Japan Self-Defense Forces allows gay people to enlist. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | No No nationwide protections Yes Yes some cities ban some anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | Yes Yes Transgender people allowed to change legal gender, but only after sex reassignment surgery | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $4,435,162,999,977 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $35,951 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 1.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 3.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 2.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | High income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 84.0 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 1.2 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 92.3% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 85.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 22.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 22.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 44.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 101.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 3.3% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 100.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 7,530 kWh/person | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 8.8% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 10.7% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 1.8 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 68.4% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 178.4 per 100 | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 38.6 per 100 | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 32,929 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 35.6700° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | 139.7700° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 35.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | 136.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | Japan Standard Time, Asia/Tokyo, UTC+09:00 | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | constitutional monarchy | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics Database. Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 4.0 except where a dataset identifies a different source or licence. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:16