Where is Japan Located?

Where is Japan located on the map? Japan is an independent nation located in Eastern Asia. Check out the following images to see location of Japan on maps.

Japan Location in World Map

Here you can see Japan and the surrounding neighboring countries.

Location Information of Japan

Japan, an archipelago located in East Asia, lies in the Pacific Ocean off the eastern coast of the Asian mainland. It is bordered to the west by the Sea of Japan and faces the Pacific Ocean to the east. The country is comprised of four main islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, along with thousands of smaller islands, making Japan one of the most unique and geographically diverse nations in the world. Known for its rich history, technological advancements, and cultural influence, Japan plays a significant role on the global stage.

Latitude and Longitude

Japan’s geographical coordinates range from 24° 30′ N to 45° 30′ N latitude and 122° 55′ E to 153° 59′ E longitude. This wide span places Japan in a temperate zone, with varying climates from the subarctic conditions of the northern island of Hokkaido to the subtropical climate of Okinawa in the south. The capital city, Tokyo, is situated at 35° 41′ N latitude and 139° 46′ E longitude.

Capital City and Major Cities

Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, is one of the largest and most populous cities in the world. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. The city is a sprawling metropolis that blends modern architecture with historic sites, creating a dynamic urban environment. While Tokyo is the most prominent city, other major cities in Japan such as Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, and Sapporo are also important centers of culture, commerce, and industry.

Tokyo (Capital City)

Tokyo, located on the eastern coast of Honshu, is Japan’s capital and the largest city in the country. With a population exceeding 13 million in the city proper and around 38 million in the greater metropolitan area, Tokyo is a vibrant city that serves as the political, cultural, and financial center of Japan. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, the Tokyo Skytree, the Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.

Tokyo is a global hub for technology, fashion, and entertainment, with districts like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The city is also known for its culinary scene, including traditional Japanese dishes like sushi, ramen, and tempura, as well as innovative modern cuisines.

Osaka

Located in the Kansai region, Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and one of the country’s most significant economic centers. Known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks, Osaka has been a commercial hub for centuries. The city is famous for its food culture, particularly for dishes such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Major attractions include Osaka Castle, the Umeda Sky Building, and Universal Studios Japan.

Osaka is a key transportation hub, with a vast network of railways, buses, and an international airport. The city is also a center for manufacturing, finance, and commerce, contributing significantly to Japan’s GDP.

Kyoto

Just to the north of Osaka lies Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and the country’s cultural center. Known for its traditional temples, shrines, and gardens, Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Famous landmarks include the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto is considered the heart of traditional Japan, with tea ceremonies, kimono-wearing, and old-world charm.

Yokohama

Yokohama, located just south of Tokyo, is Japan’s second-largest city. It is known for its vibrant port, which has historically been a significant entry point for foreign trade. Minato Mirai, an area that includes shopping centers, hotels, and the Yokohama Landmark Tower, is a focal point of modern life in the city. Yokohama is also home to several international companies, making it an economic powerhouse. The Sankei-en Garden and Yokohama Chinatown are other popular attractions in the city.

Sapporo

Located on the island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is the largest city in the northernmost region of Japan. Known for its cold winters and world-famous Sapporo beer, the city is also renowned for its annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which features massive snow sculptures. The city is a center for skiing and winter sports in the colder months, with nearby resorts such as Niseko attracting international visitors. Sapporo is also a hub for food and beer brewing, with various local dishes like miso ramen and Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) being popular.

Time Zone

Japan operates on Japan Standard Time (JST), which is UTC +9:00. Unlike many countries, Japan does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), so its time zone remains consistent throughout the year. JST is nine hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and Japan is ahead of most neighboring countries like China and Korea by one or two hours.

Climate

Japan experiences a wide range of climate types due to its geographic diversity, with subtropical climates in the south and cold, snowy winters in the north. The country is generally divided into several climate zones, ranging from humid continental in the north to subtropical in the south.

Summer

Summer in Japan typically lasts from June to August, with hot and humid conditions. July and August are the hottest months, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where temperatures can easily exceed 30°C (86°F). Typhoons are common during the late summer months, particularly from August to October, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the country’s coastal areas.

Winter

Winter in Japan is characterized by cold, dry weather. The northern regions, including Hokkaido, experience long, snowy winters, making them a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Cities like Sapporo and Hakodate receive significant snowfall. In contrast, southern regions, including Okinawa, enjoy milder winters with temperatures rarely dipping below 15°C (59°F). Tokyo and other central regions experience more moderate winter temperatures, with occasional snowfalls.

Rainy Season

Japan’s rainy season, known as the tsuyu or baiu season, typically occurs from June to mid-July. During this time, the country experiences high humidity and frequent rainfall, particularly in the western and central regions. This period is important for the agriculture sector as it brings much-needed water for rice cultivation.

Economic Status

Japan is the third-largest economy in the world by nominal GDP, and it plays a central role in global trade and finance. The country is highly developed, with a strong manufacturing base, advanced technology, and a sophisticated service sector.

Key Economic Sectors

• Manufacturing: Japan has a well-established manufacturing sector that is at the forefront of technology and innovation. The country is known for its automobile industry, with global giants such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Mazda headquartered in Japan. Electronics companies such as Sony, Panasonic, and Canon are also internationally recognized, contributing significantly to Japan’s economy. The country is a major producer of machinery, steel, and shipbuilding.
• Technology and Innovation: Japan is a world leader in technology, particularly in the fields of robotics, electronics, and information technology. The country invests heavily in research and development (R&D), which has allowed it to remain at the cutting edge of technological advancements.
• Services: Japan’s services sector includes a broad range of industries such as banking, tourism, and retail. The tourism industry, in particular, has seen significant growth in recent years, with millions of visitors coming to Japan annually for its rich culture, history, and modern amenities. Additionally, Japan is home to one of the world’s largest stock exchanges, the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
• Agriculture: Although agriculture makes up a smaller portion of Japan’s GDP, it remains essential for the country’s cultural and economic life. Japan is known for its rice farming, as well as the production of tea, soybeans, and seafood. Farming cooperatives play an important role in the distribution of agricultural goods.

Challenges

Despite its economic strength, Japan faces several challenges, including an aging population, high public debt, and labor shortages. Japan’s population is rapidly aging, with a significant portion of the population over the age of 65. This demographic shift places a burden on the country’s social services and healthcare system. Additionally, Japan’s economy is heavily dependent on exports, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global demand.

Tourist Attractions

Japan is home to a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that draw millions of tourists each year. From ancient temples and shrines to modern cities and scenic landscapes, Japan offers something for every type of traveler.

Kyoto

As the former capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous red torii gates, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and an iconic symbol of the country. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, with the Fujinomiya and Yoshida trails leading to the summit. The mountain is surrounded by beautiful lakes, such as Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, which offer stunning views of the peak.

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, located near Urayasu, are two of the most visited theme parks in Japan. Offering a blend of Disney magic and Japanese culture, these parks attract families and tourists from all over the world.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, is a somber and significant site. It stands as a reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum are dedicated to promoting world peace and preventing future nuclear conflict.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Japan for tourism or business purposes do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, a valid U.S. passport is required, and travelers must show proof of return or onward travel. For longer stays, or for other purposes such as work or study, U.S. citizens must apply for the appropriate visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

• From New York City to Tokyo: The distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo is approximately 10,600 kilometers (6,600 miles). A direct flight typically takes about 13-14 hours.
• From Los Angeles to Tokyo: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT) is around 9,500 kilometers (5,900 miles). A flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo typically takes around 11 hours.

Japan Facts

Size	377,835 km²
Residents	126.19 million
Language	Japanese
Capital	Tokyo
Longest river	Shinano (367 km)
Highest mountain	Fuji (3,776 m)
Currency	yen