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

Cowboy Bebop, created by Shinichiro Watanabe in 1998, is a popular anime series that blends science fiction, film noir, and jazz music to create a unique and memorable atmosphere.

Hayao Miyazaki, one of the most famous and influential anime directors of all time, has created many classic anime films such as Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and Howl's Moving Castle.