Understanding what is the average height in Japan provides valuable insight into the country’s population health, nutrition, genetics, and lifestyle. Height statistics are widely used in medical research, clothing design, ergonomics, sports science, and demographic studies, making them an important topic beyond simple curiosity.
Japan is often discussed in global height comparisons because its population tends to be shorter than many Western countries, yet significantly taller today than in the past. This article explores the average height in Japan for men and women, how it has changed over time, how it compares globally, and the factors that influence height in Japanese society.
What Is the Average Height in Japan Today?
The current average height in Japan for adults is:
Average Height in Japan (Adults)
| Gender | Average Height |
|---|---|
| Japanese Men | 171 cm (5 ft 7.3 in) |
| Japanese Women | 158 cm (5 ft 2.2 in) |
These figures are based on national health surveys conducted by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, using measured (not self-reported) data.
When people ask what is the average height in Japan, they are usually referring to these adult averages.
Average Height in Japan in Different Units
Japanese Men
- 171 cm
- 1.71 meters
- 5 feet 7.3 inches
- 67.3 inches
Japanese Women
- 158 cm
- 1.58 meters
- 5 feet 2.2 inches
- 62.2 inches
These measurements are typically calculated from adults aged 20 years and older.
Average Height in Japan by Age Group
Height varies slightly by age due to generational differences, posture changes, and bone density loss in older adults.
Average Height in Japan by Age (Men)
| Age Group | Average Height |
|---|---|
| 20–29 | 172 cm |
| 30–39 | 171.5 cm |
| 40–49 | 171 cm |
| 50–59 | 170 cm |
| 60+ | 168 cm |
Average Height in Japan by Age (Women)
| Age Group | Average Height |
|---|---|
| 20–29 | 159 cm |
| 30–39 | 158.5 cm |
| 40–49 | 158 cm |
| 50–59 | 157 cm |
| 60+ | 155 cm |
Younger generations in Japan tend to be slightly taller than older generations.
Has the Average Height in Japan Increased Over Time?
Yes. One of the most interesting aspects of what is the average height in Japan is how dramatically it has changed over the last century.
Historical Average Height in Japan
| Year | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 | ~157 cm | ~147 cm |
| 1950 | ~160 cm | ~149 cm |
| 1980 | ~168 cm | ~156 cm |
| 2000 | ~170 cm | ~158 cm |
| Today | ~171 cm | ~158 cm |
Why Height Increased in Japan
- Improved childhood nutrition
- Increased protein intake
- Universal healthcare
- Better living conditions
- Reduced childhood disease
Japan experienced one of the fastest height increases in the world during the 20th century.
Why Is the Average Height in Japan Shorter Than Some Countries?
Many people wonder why the average height in Japan is lower than in countries like the Netherlands or the United States.
Key Reasons
1. Genetics
- East Asian populations are genetically predisposed to shorter average stature compared to Northern Europeans.
2. Traditional Diet
- Historically low dairy consumption
- Lower animal protein intake in earlier generations
3. Body Composition
- Japanese people tend to have slimmer body frames
- Height does not necessarily correlate with health or longevity
Despite being shorter on average, Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world.
Average Height in Japan Compared to Other Countries
Global Height Comparison (Women)
| Country | Average Height |
|---|---|
| Netherlands | 170 cm |
| United States | 162.6 cm |
| United Kingdom | 162 cm |
| Japan | 158 cm |
| Philippines | 152 cm |
Global Height Comparison (Men)
| Country | Average Height |
|---|---|
| Netherlands | 183 cm |
| Germany | 180 cm |
| United States | 176 cm |
| Japan | 171 cm |
| China | 172 cm |
Japan sits below Western averages but above many Southeast Asian countries.
Average Height in Japan vs the United States
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 171 cm | 158 cm |
| United States | 176 cm | 162.6 cm |
On average:
- Japanese men are about 5 cm shorter
- Japanese women are about 4.5 cm shorter
Does Height Affect Health in Japan?
Height alone is not a reliable indicator of health.
Japan consistently ranks among the healthiest nations globally despite having a shorter average height.
Factors Contributing to Japanese Health
- Balanced diet
- Low obesity rates
- High physical activity
- Strong healthcare system
This shows that being taller does not equal being healthier.
Average Height in Japan and Clothing Sizes
Japanese clothing sizes are designed around the average height in Japan.
General Size Guidelines
- Japanese “Medium” is closer to Western “Small”
- Sleeve and pant lengths are shorter
- International brands often adjust sizing for the Japanese market
This is why height data is essential for fashion and apparel design.
Average Height of Children and Teenagers in Japan
Children’s height in Japan is closely monitored through annual school health surveys.
Average Height at Age 18
- Boys: ~170 cm
- Girls: ~158 cm
Most Japanese reach their adult height by age 17–18.
Can the Average Height in Japan Increase Further?
The average height in Japan has largely plateaued.
Reasons Growth Has Slowed
- Nutrition has reached optimal levels
- Genetic limits are being reached
- No major lifestyle shifts affecting growth
Future increases are expected to be minimal.
Cultural Perception of Height in Japan
Height is viewed differently in Japanese culture.
- Tallness is not strongly associated with dominance
- Slimness and posture are valued
- Extreme height is sometimes seen as inconvenient due to space constraints
This cultural perspective reduces social pressure related to height.
Average Height in Japan for Tourists and Expats
Visitors often notice:
- Shorter door frames
- Lower handrails
- Compact living spaces
These designs are based on the average height in Japan, optimizing comfort and efficiency.
Summary: What Is the Average Height in Japan?
- Japanese men: ~171 cm (5 ft 7 in)
- Japanese women: ~158 cm (5 ft 2 in)
- Height has increased significantly over the past century
- Growth has stabilized in recent decades
- Japan remains one of the healthiest nations globally
Understanding what is the average height in Japan helps explain cultural, architectural, and health-related differences across countries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average height in Japan?
The average height in Japan is 171 cm for men and 158 cm for women.
Is Japan considered a short country?
Compared to Western nations, Japan is shorter on average, but globally it is close to the middle range.
Has the average height in Japan increased?
Yes. Japanese people are significantly taller today than they were 100 years ago.
Are younger Japanese taller than older generations?
Yes. Younger generations are slightly taller due to better childhood nutrition and healthcare.
Is height linked to health in Japan?
No. Japan has one of the highest life expectancies despite a shorter average height.
Can Japanese adults grow taller?
No. Adult height cannot increase naturally after growth plates close.
Why are Japanese women shorter than American women?
Differences are mainly due to genetics and historical diet patterns, not health.
