With a GDP of almost 5 trillion, Japan is the third largest economy in the world. Imports and exports are its essential or vital components. As an island nation, it is heavily dependent on imports to meet its necessities. Japan exports a variety of goods in addition to motor vechicles (cars). Small businesses and large manufacturing firms are the major components of the economy.

The Japanese yen is the name of the currency used in Japan. There are yen banknotes and coins. The coins are worth 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen. The notes are worth 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 yen.  One yen is now worth 0.76 cents. It was first minted in 1869 and was adopted as the official currency in 1871. 

Japan's economy is focused on trade. It is a very big importing and exporting country. Some of its main exports are motor vehicles, machinery, electronic equipment, iron, and steel. Some of its main imports are crude petroleum, circuits, and coal. Some of their main trading partners are China, the U.S., and South Korea.

Compared to most other countries, Japan's government runs a lot of the economy. It is a market economy that was one in ruins from WWII, but grew immensely due in part to government. People are encouraged to save and invest their money.