Tempura, a dish made with battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, is a popular Japanese dish that originated in the 16th century.

The Mongol invasions of Japan in the 13th century were repelled by a combination of strategic planning and a typhoon that destroyed the invading fleet.

The Japanese are known for their love of vending machines, which can be found on nearly every street corner and sell everything from snacks to underwear.