Discover 3 Countries That Start With J

Out of the 195 countries in the world, only three countries start with J. Each of these countries is located on different continents, varies in size and economic status, and has distinctive wildlife. Let’s go over the countries that begin with J and some interesting facts about each.

1. Jamaica

This island country is part of the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean Sea. Many consider the lush green country to be the most beautiful island in the Caribbean. Its diverse geography consists of mountains, volcanoes, sandy beaches, coastal plains, rivers, and forests.

Jamaica’s main source of income is its tourism industry. Tourism accounts for over half of the country’s foreign exchange and one-fourth of its employment. Jamaica has one of the slowest-growing economies in the world. The high public debt and recurring economic shocks contribute to this slow growth.

Wildlife in Jamaica

• Giant swallowtail butterfly
• Jamaican coney
• Jamaican iguana
• Manatee
• Mongoose
• Red-billed streamertail
• Sea turtle

2. Japan

Japan is East Asia’s largest island country consisting of 14,125 islands. The four main islands are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. About one-third of the population resides in or around Tokyo, which is located on the Pacific coast of Honshu. Most of Japan’s terrain is mountainous and rugged, with forests covering more than half of the country. 

Japan’s advanced economy is the third largest in the world. Japan is a major exporter of motor vehicles, auto parts, and plastics. The country relies on agricultural imports since its rugged terrain does not produce many natural resources. 

Japan’s Wildlife

• Amami rabbit
• Dugong
• Green pheasant
• Japanese Macaque (snow monkey)
• Red-crowned crane
• Sika deer
• Ussuri brown bear

3. Jordan

Jordan is in the center of the Middle East, and it offers a diverse landscape and climate. The eastern part of the country is mostly desert, while the western part includes the Jordanian Highlands, the Dead Sea, and the fertile Jordan River Valley. Most of its larger cities are in the highlands, away from the arid eastern desert plateau. 

Jordan is a middle-income country and has one of the freest economies in the Middle East. The country is also reliant on imports because it only produces a few natural resources. Poverty rates are high, and unemployment is common among women and younger people.

Jordan’s Wildlife

• Arabian oryx
• Barracuda
• Honey badger
• Nubian ibex
• Stingray
• Striped hyena
• Viper

The Most Populated Country that Starts with J – Japan

Japan’s population in 2023 is estimated at 123,719,238, and it ranks 11th most populated country in the world.

The Largest Country that Starts with J by Area – Japan

Japan has a total area of 145,914 square miles. This includes the land area of 140,729 square miles and the water area of 5,185 square miles. Japan is at least four times bigger than other J countries. It ranks 63rd largest in the world. 

The Oldest Country that Starts with J – Japan

Japan is among the 10 oldest countries in the world. People began inhabiting the islands of Japan around 13000 BCE. The start of Japan’s imperial dynasty dates back to 660 BCE when the legendary Emperor Jimmu rose to the throne. Although Jimmu is a mythical legend, the scripture mentioning his reign provides a loose timeline for the start of Japan’s imperial dynasty.

The Youngest Country that Starts with J – Jamaica

The Spanish settled in Jamaica in the early 1600s after Columbus landed there in 1494. The Native Taino inhabited the island for centuries before any European settlers but were wiped out and replaced by enslaved Africans. In 1655, England gained control of the island. Jamaica remained a British colony until it joined the Federation of the West Indies in 1958. Jamaica achieved complete independence when it withdrew from the Federation in 1962.

Summary of Countries that Start with J

Here is a summary of the population of countries that start with J.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com