The Japan Professional Football League, also known as the J.League, was founded in 1992 and has become one of the most successful professional soccer leagues in Asia.

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

Golf is a popular leisure activity in Japan, and the country has produced several successful professional golfers such as Hideki Matsuyama and Ryo Ishikawa.