Kitakyushu is a major industrial city in southwestern Japan, located on the island of Kyushu, and is known for its steel and automotive industries.

The Showa period, which lasted from 1926 to 1989, was marked by Japan's militarism and involvement in World War II.

Japan has a highly developed public transportation system, including bullet trains (Shinkansen) that can travel up to 320 km/h (200 mph).