Japan / 日本国 – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Japan?
Japan is a stunningly beautiful island country in eastern Asia, in the Pacific Ocean. It consists of five main volcanic islands, and more than 14 thousand smaller islands, some of which are artificial, and some of which are disputed with Russia, North Korea and South Korea.
Most of the country is covered in mountains and forests, the highest point being the famous and picturesque volcano Mount Fuji, on Honshu island, at 12,388 ft (3,776 m) above sea level. The mountainous terrain of Japan makes it one of the most densely populated countries in the world, although Japanese citizens also experience the highest life expectancy. It has a very long, rich and troubled history, dating back tens of thousands of years.
The population of Japan is around 124 million people (2024), about ⅓ of whom live in the metropolitan area of the capital, Tokyo – the most populous city on earth.
A bit about the history of Japan
Early History and Ancient Japan
Japan’s history dates back to ancient times. Early human settlement in Japan is believed to have occurred around 30,000 BC during the Paleolithic period. By the 3rd century BC, the Yayoi period marked the arrival of rice cultivation and the establishment of social hierarchies. The subsequent Kofun period (c. 250-538 AD) saw the emergence of powerful clans, and the establishment of the Japanese imperial family.
Formation of the Japanese State
The Asuka period (538-710 AD) is often considered the beginning of Japan’s state formation. During this time, Buddhism was introduced to Japan from Korea and China, influencing Japanese culture, governance and art. The Nara period (710-794) saw the establishment of a centralised government and the construction of the first permanent capital, Nara. The Heian period (794-1185) marked the peak of courtly culture and the development of classic Japanese art, literature and poetry.
Feudal Japan and the Samurai
In the late 12th century, Japan entered a feudal period characterszed by the rise of the samurai class. The Kamakura period (1185-1333) began when the Minamoto clan defeated the Taira clan and established a military government called the shogunate. The shogunate system continued through the Muromachi period (1336-1573) and the Sengoku period (1467-1603), a time of intense warfare among feudal lords.
The Tokugawa Shogunate
In 1603, Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa Shogunate after winning the Battle of Sekigahara, unifying Japan under the rule of the Tokugawa clan. This era, known as the Edo period (1603-1868), was marked by a strict social hierarchy, isolationist foreign policies (sakoku), and the development of a unique Japanese culture. During this period, Japan experienced relative peace, economic growth and a flourishing of arts and literature.
Opening to the West and the Meiji Restoration
By the mid-19th century, Japan faced pressure from Western powers, particularly the United States. In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry forced Japan to open its ports to American trade, ending over two centuries of self-imposed isolation. In 1868, the Meiji Restoration took place, restoring power to the emperor and beginning a period of rapid modernisation and industrialisation. Japan adopted many Western institutions and technologies, while also maintaining its distinct cultural identity.
Imperial Japan and World War II
By the early 20th century, Japan had become a major world power. The Empire of Japan expanded its territories, including victories in the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) and the colonisation of Korea and Taiwan. During the 1930s and 1940s, Japan pursued an aggressive policy of imperial expansion, leading to its involvement in World War II. Japan’s invasion of China and subsequent attacks on south east Asia and the Pacific brought it into direct conflict with the Allied powers.
In 1941, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, leading to the United States entering World War II. The war in the Pacific ended after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, prompting Japan’s surrender on September 2, 1945.
Post-War Occupation and Economic Recovery
Following World War II, Japan was occupied by Allied forces, led by the United States, from 1945 to 1952. During this time, Japan’s political system was reformed, and its militaristic institutions were dismantled. Japan adopted a new constitution in 1947, renouncing war and prohibiting military aggression. Japan also received substantial aid for reconstruction and underwent a process of democratisation. By the 1950s and 1960s, Japan experienced rapid economic recovery, emerging as one of the world’s leading industrial nations. The country became known for its technological advancements, particularly in electronics and automotive industries.
Contemporary Japan
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Japan continued to experience economic growth, though it faced challenges such as an aging population and periodic economic stagnation. Japan is a global leader in technology, innovation and culture, particularly in fields such as robotics, automotive engineering and entertainment.
Politically, Japan has remained a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The emperor, who holds a symbolic position, is the head of state, while executive power resides in the prime minister and the elected legislature. Japan also plays a significant role in international organisations, including the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the Group of Seven (G7). Despite its peaceful constitution, Japan maintains a modern defence force and is involved in regional security matters, particularly with its neighbours, including China and North Korea.
Japan road trip
Map of Japan
We haven’t finished our planning for our road trip through Japan yet. When we do though, we’ll post it here, and in the blog.
Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
What’s it like to drive in Japan?
They drive on the left hand side of the road in Japan. In the main, roads are very good. Driving standards are also good.
Do you require an international driving permit in Japan?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Japan?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Japan?
A Carnet de Passages is required to overland in Japan. We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Japan?
In Japan they use the Japanese Yen. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is widely accepted in cities, although not in rural areas. Travellers cheques are not readily accepted outside of major cities. There are many ATMs in cities and towns throughout the country, although not all accept foreign-issued cards.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Japan?
They speak Japanese in Japan. English is also spoken by younger generations in major cities and in tourist ares.
What time zone is Japan in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Japan?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Japan?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Japan.
What plug / socket type do they use in Japan?
In Japan they use plug / socket types A and B.
Health issues in Japan
Is it safe to drink water in Japan?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Japan. Bottled water is also readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for Japan?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Japan.
Phones in Japan
What is the country calling code for Japan?
The country calling code for Japan is +81
What are the emergency phone numbers in Japan?
- The emergency number for police in Japan is: 110
- In Japan, the emergency number for ambulance is: 119
- The emergency number for fire in Japan is: 119
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!