Japanese

The Japanese people are the dominant ethnic group in Japan, closely related to other East Asian populations. Historically, Japan had a rigid social structure, but this has largely dissolved, though discrimination against the burakumin (descendants of an outcast class) persists. While Japan considers itself ethnically homogeneous, there are small populations of Koreans, Ainu, and Chinese descent, who have faced varying degrees of discrimination.1

Japan's population has grown significantly since 1868, with a strong trend of urbanization, concentrating people in coastal plains and cities. This has led to a decline in rural populations and, more recently, a slowing birth rate and an aging population, creating labor shortages. Culturally, Japan has a history of selectively absorbing and adapting foreign influences, particularly from China and the West, while maintaining its distinct identity.234