The first novel ever written, The Tale of Genji, was written in Japan in the 11th century by a noblewoman named Murasaki Shikibu.

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

Japanese automakers have been leaders in developing electric and hybrid vehicles, with Toyota's Prius being one of the most successful examples.