Japan's victory over Russia in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905 was the first time an Asian power had defeated a European power in a modern war.

The Japanese green pheasant, also known as the "kiji," is the national bird of Japan and is often depicted in Japanese art and folklore.

Dashi, a type of stock made from fish and seaweed, is a key ingredient in many Japanese dishes and is often used to add flavor and umami.