Japan is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic monuments of ancient Kyoto and the island of Itsukushima Shrine.

The instant noodle, invented by Momofuku Ando in 1958, has become a staple food item in many countries around the world.

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