The Shinto religion, which emphasizes the worship of nature and ancestors, is indigenous to Japan and is still practiced by many people today.

The 16th century saw the rise of Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, who were instrumental in unifying Japan under a centralized government.

Sushi, a dish made with vinegared rice and various fillings such as raw fish or vegetables, is one of the most famous Japanese foods and has become popular around the world.