Population Japan 2021, by prefecture

With approximately 14 million inhabitants, Tokyo Prefecture was the largest prefecture based on population size in Japan as of 2021. The smallest prefecture in this regard was Tottori Prefecture, which in the same year counted about 550 thousand inhabitants.

Rural depopulation

Like many industrial economies, Japan is facing the problem of depopulating rural areas. While the birth rate continues to decline, a lot of young people decide to migrate from small towns and villages to large cities like Tokyo or Osaka for university and work. The population of Tokyo Prefecture has shown substantial growth over the past decades and consists largely of working age citizens. Smaller communities are trying to counteract the depopulation process with initiatives meant to invite younger workers and tourists back.

Migration to Japan

Japan is often described as a very homogenous society, with a low share of foreign residents. Despite the declining birthrate and many businesses experiencing a labor shortage, companies have been hesitant to employ foreign workers, in part due to the strict immigration laws. The Japanese Government has tried to ease immigration restrictions and encourage foreigners to work in Japan. The largest share of foreign workers in Japan, however, is residing in the county with a permanent residence or as the family member of a Japanese national.