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

Astro Boy, created by Osamu Tezuka in 1963, is considered the first modern anime and helped to popularize the genre both in Japan and around the world.

Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and seafood, is a popular Japanese comfort food.