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Japanese Scorecard

Country profile

Japan is an island nation in East Asia known for its blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, ranging from serene temples to futuristic urban centers. It has a population of 124.5 million, a population growth rate of -0.49%, and a median age of 48.96 years.

Its history spans millennia with influences from indigenous Shinto practices, Chinese cultural transmission, and a feudal era that left a rich legacy in arts and governance.

Today, Japan is admired for its technological innovation, deep respect for tradition, and a distinctive cultural identity that continues to influence art, cuisine, and global pop culture.

Its capital city is Tokyo.

How does Japan compare to other countries?

Explore country scorecards:

Economic Development

GDP per Capita (PPP) in Japan improved by 5.2% from 2022 to 2023

Unemployment Rate in Japan improved by 1.4% from 2023 to 2024

Inflation Rate in Japan improved by 16.2% from 2023 to 2024

General Government Debt in Japan improved by 2.6% from 2022 to 2023

Health and Social Development

Life Expectancy in Japan improved by 0.1% from 2022 to 2023

Infant Mortality Rate showed no change from 2022 to 2023

Human Development showed no change from 2021 to 2022

Suicide Mortality Rate in Japan worsened by 1.6% from 2020 to 2021

World Happiness Report in Japan improved by 1.4% from 2023 to 2024

Freedom in the World showed no change from 2023 to 2024

Education

Completion of Upper Secondary Education in Japan improved by 6.0% from 2010 to 2020

PISA Scores (Reading) in Japan improved by 2.4% from 2018 to 2022

PISA Scores (Math) in Japan improved by 1.7% from 2018 to 2022

PISA Scores (Science) in Japan improved by 3.4% from 2018 to 2022

Governance and Security

Corruption Perception showed no change from 2022 to 2023

Control of Corruption in Japan worsened by 9.1% from 2022 to 2023

Homicide Rate in Japan improved by 8.0% from 2020 to 2021

Government Effectiveness in Japan improved by 0.7% from 2022 to 2023

Political Stability in Japan worsened by 7.8% from 2022 to 2023

Rule of Law in Japan worsened by 1.4% from 2022 to 2023

Voice and Accountability in Japan improved by 8.3% from 2022 to 2023

Environmental Sustainability and Energy

CO2 Emissions per Capita in Japan improved by 3.8% from 2022 to 2023

Air Pollution (PM2.5) in Japan improved by 0.8% from 2019 to 2020

Renewable Energy Consumption in Japan improved by 3.5% from 2020 to 2021