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

The All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, held annually since 1921, is one of the most prestigious high school soccer tournaments in the world.

The Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for wildlife watching, with opportunities to see brown bears and rare bird species.