In Japan, there is a unique year system based on the imperial era. Heisei 29 means 29th year since Heisei Emperor was enthroned. In fact, although Japan has adopted the Western calendar for many things, this unique Japanese system is still in very commonly used, especially with government issued documents, such as a driver’s license or family registration. So, let’s remember, 2017 is Heisei 29. Got it?