The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, created by Nagaru Tanigawa in 2003, is a popular light novel series and anime that explores themes of existentialism, time travel, and alternate realities.

Judo, a martial art that emphasizes throws and grappling techniques, was developed in Japan in the late 19th century and has become a popular sport around the world.

The Japanese wood pigeon, also known as the "tekura," is a species of pigeon that is native to Japan's forests and is known for its distinctive cooing call.