Japan's surrender in World War II was announced on August 15, 1945, and marked the end of the war in the Pacific.

The Muromachi period, which lasted from the 14th to the 16th century, was a time of great artistic and cultural achievement, including the development of tea ceremony and the Noh theater.

Japan's recorded history dates back to the 5th century AD, when the first known emperor, Emperor Jimmu, ascended to the throne.