Final answer:
Competition for the best schools in Japan is intense due to high educational standards, social prestige associated with top institutions, selection of teachers from top graduates, and a shrinking workforce that values highly educated individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Competition to get into the best schools and universities in Japan is fierce due to a variety of social and educational factors. Historically, Japan had a rapid dissemination of its public school system, striving for high educational standards since its establishment in 1872, with nearly universal attendance by 1900. This educational tradition continues with strong emphasis on achievement and success, particularly in science and Confucian classics.
These high educational standards are coupled with society's view that attending prestigious schools provides a reliable pathway to social status and economic success. In Japan, teachers are often recruited from the top university graduates, which contributes to the delivery of high-quality education and the pressure to excel. This meritocratic aspect of Japanese education means high-performing students, who often come from families able to afford additional academic support, gain entry to the best institutions.
The competitive academic environment is exacerbated by social factors and a shrinking working-age population due to a negative population growth pattern. The resulting labor shortages elevate the demand for highly qualified individuals, amplifying the pressure on students to excel academically to ensure access to good career opportunities. Thus, competition for spots in top schools is steep, as these institutions are seen as gateways to professional success and social esteem.