Japan Postage Stamps

Japan has one of the world’s most celebrated philatelic traditions, with a history of stamp production dating back to 1871. Here’s an overview:
Early History
Japan’s first stamps, issued in 1871, featured the mon currency and were called “dragon stamps” for their distinctive design. These are among the most prized by collectors today.
Famous Themes & Series
Japan Post (日本郵便) is renowned for its beautiful, highly detailed stamp designs covering:

Nature — cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, cranes, and seasonal flora are perennial favorites
Traditional arts — ukiyo-e woodblock prints, kabuki, and pottery
Pop culture — Hello Kitty, Pokémon, and anime series have had their own stamp editions
Greetings series — seasonal and celebratory stamps, often sold in decorative booklets

Collectibility
Notable Facts

Japan issues hundreds of new stamp designs every year — more than almost any other country
Furusato (Hometown) stamps, introduced in 1989, feature regional themes from each prefecture
Japanese stamp sheets are often works of art in themselves, with elaborate borders and mini-sheets
Self-adhesive “greeting” stamps in booklet form are very popular for personal correspondence
Many rare early Meiji-era stamps fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction

For Collectors
The Japan Philatelic Society Foundation (公益財団法人 日本郵趣協会) is the main body supporting collectors. Stamps can be found through Japan Post’s online shop, auction sites like Yahoo! Japan Auctions, or international philatelic dealers.