Japan - Overview (2024)

FAQs

What is the general overview of Japan? ›

Japan is an archipelago, or string of islands, on the eastern edge of Asia. There are four main islands: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. There are also nearly 4,000 smaller islands! Japan's nearest mainland neighbors are the Siberian region of Russia in the north and Korea and China farther south.

You can say: “I wanted to experience living in Japan because I admire Japanese culture, history, and lifestyle. And I wanted to explore its authentic aspects. I also admire the quality consciousness of Japanese companies, and working in such an environment will be a great learning opportunity.

Japan is a relatively small country, but there's a lot to see. While it may be challenging to see everything in Japan in just 14 days, with careful planning and prioritizing, you can definitely cover many major attractions.

The Japanese people call their country "Nippon" or "Nihon," which literally translated means "source of the sun." It is loosely translated into English as "land of the rising sun."

Japan is a mountainous country, with two-thirds of its territory covered with forests. Most areas have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, although Okinawa in the south is subtropical, and Hokkaido in the north is subarctic. Therefore Japan has great diversity of plant and animal life.

The cost of a trip to Japan can vary, but for a 10-day stay, you can expect to spend between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities.

The biggest decision you must make is which city to visit first: Osaka or Kyoto? Here, we'll suggest visiting Osaka first, but you could easily switch them around. Note that the two Osaka days here are a summary version of our Osaka 2-Day Itinerary.

Japan is very famous for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. Iconic elements include the stunning cherry blossoms, traditional tea ceremonies, samurai culture, and advanced technology such as bullet trains and robotics.

There is two words in Japanese which refers to U.S.: アメリカ ('amerika' as read on 'America') or 米国 ('beikoku'). The former is written using katakana (as a direct transliteration of 'America') while the latter using kanji. The katakana one is often used in daily conversation, while the kanji one has a sense of formality.

Why is Japan called Nippon? ›

Both Nippon and Nihon literally mean "the sun's origin", that is, where the sun originates, and are often translated as the Land of the Rising Sun. This nomenclature comes from Imperial correspondence with the Chinese Sui dynasty and refers to Japan's eastern position relative to China.

In Japan, some of the core values are thinking of others, doing your best, not giving up, respecting your elders, knowing your role, and working in a group. These concepts are taught explicitly and implicitly from nursery school into the working world.

The executive branch is led by the Prime Minister, who is nominated through a Diet resolution followed by official appointment by the Emperor. The Prime Minister's office is supported by the Cabinet, which is comprised of Cabinet Ministers and Cabinet State Ministers who are designated by the Prime Minister.

Japan has developed a highly diversified manufacturing and service economy and is one of the world's largest producers of motor vehicles, steel, and high-technology manufactured goods (notably consumer electronics).

Japan is a country famous for cherry blossoms, castles, samurai swords, and much more. The island nation has a vibrant history. It is packed with Shrines and religious sites. From technological buffs to history geeks to anime fans, every kind of traveller loves to visit the country.