The Japanese Manuscript Counter plugin displays real time character counts and manuscript page equivalents optimized for Japanese writing. It shows counts in the status bar based on the 400 character manuscript paper standard (genkouyoushi). When you select text, the plugin updates to show counts for just that selection. You can also access detailed counting information through the command palette. The plugin accounts for Japanese specific formatting rules including line breaks, paragraphs and kinsoku shori (line-breaking restrictions). Full width characters count as one, half width as 0.5. Essential for Japanese writers who need accurate manuscript formatting.