The instant noodle, invented by Momofuku Ando in 1958, has become a staple food item in many countries around the world.

The Japanese women's national soccer team, also known as the Nadeshiko Japan, won the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2011 and has been a dominant force in women's soccer.

Basketball is growing in popularity in Japan, with several professional teams and the national team competing at the highest level.