Clues
Use these details to boost your ability to identify specific countries in the game.
Identity & symbols
Language
Japanese is the primary language, using three scripts: Kanji (characters borrowed from Chinese), Hiragana (syllabic script for native words), and Katakana (syllabic script for foreign words).
Culture
Presence of vending machines, unique street food stalls, and cultural landmarks like shrines and temples.
Miscellaneous
Look for the presence of torii gates, public transportation signage, and distinctively designed manhole covers.
Capital
Tokyo
Environment & landscape
Environment
Varied landscapes including mountains, forests, and coastal areas; cherry blossoms and bamboo can often be seen in urban parks.
Infrastructure
Modern architecture mixed with traditional elements such as temples and shrines; many buildings are compact and multi-story in urban areas.
Coverage
True
Foliage
Common tree types include cherry blossoms (sakura), Japanese maples, and evergreens like pines. Grasses are often seen in parks and gardens, with many native varieties.
Topography
Japan is predominantly mountainous, with the Japanese Alps, volcanic ranges, and hilly terrain, interspersed with flat coastal plains.
Roads & transportation
Cars
Vehicle registration plates are white with a green or blue font; often include hiragana characters.
Driving
Vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
Signs
Traffic signs are usually in Japanese; many signs include pictograms and have distinctive colors like red and blue.
Stop
Stop signs in Japan are typically red octagons with the word '止まれ' (tomare) in white.
Bollards
Bollards in Japan often feature unique designs, sometimes decorated with local art or motifs, and are generally used to control vehicle access in pedestrian areas.
Poles
Utility poles in Japan are often seen carrying multiple lines for telephone, electricity, and sometimes cable TV, and they can be adorned with various signs and notices.