Japan invaded Manchuria in 1931, which marked the beginning of its aggressive expansion in Asia prior to World War II.

The Hakone Ekiden, a long-distance relay race held annually between Tokyo and Hakone, is one of the most prestigious races in Japanese college athletics.

One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda in 1997, is a popular manga and anime series that follows the adventures of a group of pirates as they search for the ultimate treasure.