Kendo, a martial art that uses bamboo swords and protective armor, is a popular sport in Japan and is often taught in schools.

Japanese automakers have been leaders in developing autonomous driving technologies, with several companies investing heavily in research and development in this area.

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.