This article looks at why some Japanese people are taller than their peers in other countries. It explores historical context, genetic factors, nutrition and diet, lifestyle habits, education system, economic factors and more to understand the phenomenon. Factors such as improved nutrition due to increased access to nutritious foods, regular exercise, avoiding smoking tobacco and getting enough sleep all contribute to physical growth during childhood and adolescence. Genetic markers are also believed to be linked with increased height potential for Japanese people. The economic situation of a country can also have an impact on its citizens’ health including their physical growth potential due to access or lack thereof to nutritious foods or medical care.