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While preparing materials for work, I often used data published by government agencies and other public bodies.

Looking at data can reveal things I never knew. Numbers sometimes bring into focus what had previously seemed vague.

Yet despite the wealth of publicly available data, we rarely have the chance to encounter it in everyday life.

I thought that making this data easier to understand and explore through maps might help people feel more connected to it.

And if I was going to create something, I wanted to share it with others, rather than keep it to myself.

Maps and data take centre stage on this site. Instead of presenting a predetermined conclusion, I want each visitor to explore the maps, compare the numbers, and feel free to wonder, “Why is that?” or “I never knew there was such a difference.”

That is why I keep the text to what is needed and try not to present my own views as the answer. What you take away from the data—and what you discover—can be different for everyone.

I am learning too, gradually turning data that interests me into something we can see. I would be happy if these maps and numbers helped us discover new things and learn together.

I also hope that people outside Japan, as well as those who live here, will get to know the country better through data.

That is the thinking behind this site.