Kyoto is a historic city in central Japan that is known for its many temples, shrines, and gardens, and is a popular destination for traditional Japanese culture.

In the 12th century, the samurai class emerged in Japan, with warriors serving as protectors for the aristocracy.

Japan's victory over Russia in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905 was the first time an Asian power had defeated a European power in a modern war.