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

The Shinto religion, which emphasizes the worship of nature and ancestors, is indigenous to Japan and is still practiced by many people today.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, created by Nagaru Tanigawa in 2003, is a popular light novel series and anime that explores themes of existentialism, time travel, and alternate realities.