Dragon Ball, created by Akira Toriyama in 1984, is one of the most popular and influential anime franchises of all time, and has inspired numerous spin-offs, video games, and merchandise.

Astro Boy, created by Osamu Tezuka in 1963, is considered the first modern anime and helped to popularize the genre both in Japan and around the world.

Japan has produced several successful Olympians, including swimmer Kosuke Kitajima and figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu.