A Quick Insight into .JP and .JP WHOIS Protocol

We continue populating our list of ccTLDs and gTLDs. As you know, our Domain Availability API and Whois API allow programmatically domain availability and Whois checks. Let’s discuss Whois JP!

In the expansive digital world, each country is represented by a unique digital signature known as a country code Top-Level Domain (ccTLD). For Japan, this signature is “.jp,” a ccTLD that plays a crucial role in establishing a distinct online identity for Japanese entities and individuals. This article explores the .jp domain, its WHOIS protocol, and provides a brief overview of Japan.

The Significance of .JP in Domain Management

The .JP domain serves as a beacon for websites and online services that have their roots in Japan. Acting as a digital address, it helps users identify and access content relevant to Japanese culture, business, and technology. With Japan being a hub of innovation, technology, and tradition, the .jp domain provides a critical link between the country and the global internet community.

Digital representation of whois JP
digital representation that combines traditional Japanese culture with modern technological advancements, highlighting the .JP domain and its significance in Japan’s digital landscape. The image captures the essence of Japan’s unique blend of heritage and innovation, showcasing the .jp ccTLD’s role in connecting Japan to the global digital community.

I’ve read a few Toyota manufacturing books, and wrote about applying Kaizen to your website portfolio. I don’t want to pose as a Japanese fanboy, but I am no stranger to Japanese philosophy and sushi. And yes, my company parses whois .JP (example below), what a weird combination.

Understanding ccTLDs

Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs) are two-letter internet domain extensions designated to a specific country, sovereign state, or territory. They form an essential part of the internet’s Domain Name System (DNS), enabling countries to carve out their own space in the digital universe. Examples of ccTLDs include .us for the United States, .ca for Canada, and .nz for New Zealand. Each ccTLD is managed by a designated registry within the country, ensuring that the domain aligns with national interests and policies.

The Genesis and Governance of .JP

It was introduced in August 1986 (according to Wikipedia), and is officially one of the oldest TLDs. The .jp domain has since become an integral part of Japan’s digital identity. The Japan Registry Services Co., Ltd. (JPRS) manages the .jp domain, overseeing its operations to ensure stability, security, and adherence to global and local internet governance policies. The management of .jp under JPRS ensures that the domain remains a trusted and reliable marker for Japanese entities on the internet.

As of February 2024, there are 1,195,695 registered .JP domains – source.

Intro to Japan

Japan is known worldwide for its rich history, cultural depth, and technological advancements. From ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, and from traditional arts to cutting-edge robotics, Japan presents a harmonious blend of the old and the new. This duality is mirrored in the country’s digital domain, where traditional businesses and modern tech startups alike find their home under the .jp ccTLD.

Japan Fujiyoshida Pagoda
Japan, Fujiyoshida, Pagoda – Photo by David Edelstein on Unsplash

.JP WHOIS: A Tool for Transparency

The WHOIS protocol for .jp domains provides a means to query databases for information about domain registrations under the .jp ccTLD. This includes details such as the domain owner’s contact information, registration and expiration dates, and the nameservers associated with the domain. The .JP WHOIS service, adhering to privacy laws and regulations, plays a vital role in maintaining the transparency and security of the .jp domain space.

.JP WHOIS serves various stakeholders, including:

Whois JP example

The .jp domain and its WHOIS protocol stand as pillars of Japan’s digital infrastructure, encapsulating the nation’s commitment to innovation, tradition, and internet governance. As Japan continues to influence the global stage through technology, culture, and business, the .jp ccTLD remains a key player. With it, they are promoting connectivity, security, and identity for Japanese entities worldwide.

Whois JSON output example for a .jp domain
Whois JSON output example for a .jp domain

This WHOIS JSON record provides information about a .jp domain, specifically “tokio.co.jp,” and demonstrates the structure and type of data typically returned by a WHOIS query processed by the Japan Registry Services (JPRS). Here’s an analysis of the key components in the record:

  1. General Information:
    • WHOIS Server: The query was processed by “whois.jprs.jp,” indicating that JPRS is responsible for managing .jp domain name registrations.
    • Status: “Successfully processed” with a status code of “0” indicates the query completed without any errors.
    • Registered: The domain is currently registered, as indicated by “true.”
  2. Domain Status and Details:
    • Domain Status: “Connected” suggests that the domain is active and properly configured to work with DNS servers.
    • Date Created: The domain was registered on August 9, 2007, showing a long history of registration.
    • Date Updated: The last update to the domain’s information was on September 1, 2023.
    • Date Expires: The domain is set to expire on August 31, 2024, indicating when the current registration period ends.
  3. Nameservers:
    • The domain uses “01.dnsv.jp” and “02.dnsv.jp” as its nameservers, which are responsible for directing internet traffic to the correct server for “tokio.co.jp.” These are part of a DNS hosting service provided by DNSV.jp.
  4. Privacy and GDPR Compliance:
    • WHOIS Raw: “Disabled due to GDPR” indicates that detailed registrant information is not disclosed in the WHOIS output, adhering to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) privacy standards.
    • Contacts: The contacts field is null, further reflecting privacy measures or the absence of publicly available contact information due to GDPR.
  5. Disclaimer:
    • A disclaimer is included, emphasizing that the JPRS database is intended for network administration purposes only. It also provides guidance on how to use the WHOIS service and modify output for English readers.
  6. Miscellaneous:
    • Premium: The domain is not marked as “premium,” which would indicate a higher value or cost associated with its registration.
    • Cached: The record indicates “_cached”: false, meaning the information is Whois in real-time or recently fetched, not served from a cached source.
    • Requests Available: “80” might refer to the remaining WHOIS queries available before reaching a query limit.

This WHOIS record offers a snapshot of the “tokio.co.jp” domain’s registration and status, while also highlighting privacy considerations and the administrative details managed by JPRS for .jp domains.

GoranDuskic

Goran Duskic has been the Founder and CEO of WhoAPI Inc. since 2011, a company that specializes in developing APIs, including the well-known Whois API. He started his career in internet entrepreneurship in 2006 and has co-founded several online businesses, including a web hosting company that he later sold. Goran's work primarily involves creating practical API solutions to meet technological needs.