Matsuyama is a city located on the island of Shikoku, and is known for its historic castle, hot springs, and literary history.

Sapporo is the largest city on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, and is known for its winter sports and beer.

During the Edo period, which lasted from the 17th to the mid-19th century, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate and experienced a period of peace and stability.