The Japanese crested ibis, also known as the "toki," is a critically endangered bird that is native to Japan and is considered a symbol of good luck.

The 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult shocked Japan and led to increased scrutiny of religious groups.

The Hells of Beppu in Beppu, a city on the island of Kyushu, are a series of hot springs that are too hot for bathing, but are a unique and interesting sight to see.