The 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult shocked Japan and led to increased scrutiny of religious groups.

Sapporo is the largest city on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, and is known for its winter sports and beer.

Golf is a popular leisure activity in Japan, and the country has produced several successful professional golfers such as Hideki Matsuyama and Ryo Ishikawa.