This paper presents and overview of the biological and ecological features of the J-stock common minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata scammoni) in waters around Japan based on analyses of genetically identified individuals. Reviewed information included spatial/temporal distribution, morphology, morphometrics, reproductive characteristics, feeding ecology, environmental pollutants, and ecological markers. Except for feeding ecology and environmental pollutants, these features (e.g., spatial/temporal distribution, morphology such as flipper and fluke color pattern and ecological markers such as cookie cutter shark scars) confirm the biological and ecological uniqueness of the J-stock within the North Pacific common minke whale. Our analysis also confirms the existence of distinct genetically, biologically and ecologically independent stocks with characteristics so far not identified in any other baleen whales in the Western North Pacific, and corroborates the view that the minke whale J-stock should be managed independently.