Karaoke, a popular form of entertainment in Japan, originated in Kobe in the 1970s.

The Miyajima Island in Hiroshima is famous for its giant torii gate that appears to float on the water at high tide, and is considered one of Japan's most scenic spots.

Studio Ghibli, founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, is one of the most famous anime studios in the world and is known for producing critically acclaimed films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.