13
Digits in a standard JAN barcode
How to read Japanese product model numbers
A model number is not a name. It is a compressed spec sheet. Three systems — tools, model kits, barcodes — side by side.
Japan, in short notes.
With sources.
Short notes on Japanese society, products and markets, written in Japanese and English from primary sources. Facts and interpretation are always labelled apart.
Featured
Japan has become a single-person household society
In the 2020 census, 21.15 million households — 38.1% of private households — were one person living alone. In 2005 that share was level with couples with children; it is now far ahead. The national projection puts it at 44.3% by 2050. Here are the numbers, and, kept separate, what we read into them.
38.1%
of households are one person (2020)
44.3%
projected for 2050
1.92
people per household, 2050 (projected)
Latest notes
All notes →4°
Feed angle (KTC catalog figure)
Reading the KTC nepros NBR290 from its specs
A small 1/4-inch ratchet with 90 teeth and a 4° swing. What it is, who it suits, and what to check before buying.
Why researching Japan-origin products can be a niche opportunity
The value is not that the information is scarce. It is that it is hard to read.
Topics
SocietyHow Japan's population, households and ways of living are changing, read from the statistics.1 noteProductJapanese-made products, understood through published specs and design intent.2 notesMarketHow Japan-origin products and niche markets are structured.1 noteBuying GuideHow to read model numbers, labels and specs, and what to check before you buy.2 notes
How we write
- 01Fact, then interpretationStatistics and manufacturer figures are marked as fact. What we read into them is marked as our reading.
- 02Traceable numbersEvery figure has a source, and we link to the original: government statistics, maker catalogs, primary documents.
- 03Fewer, deeperNo article farm. Each note works one subject down to its key points, numbers and caveats.