The robotic pet, such as Sony's Aibo, has become a popular form of entertainment and companionship for people who cannot keep real pets.

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.

The oil crisis of the 1970s had a major impact on Japan's economy, leading to increased focus on energy conservation and alternative sources of energy.