The hybrid car, first introduced by Toyota in 1997, uses both gasoline and electric power to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult shocked Japan and led to increased scrutiny of religious groups.

The Muromachi period, which lasted from the 14th to the 16th century, was a time of great artistic and cultural achievement, including the development of tea ceremony and the Noh theater.