Japan's surrender in World War II was announced on August 15, 1945, and marked the end of the war in the Pacific.

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.

Soba, a type of thin noodle made from buckwheat flour, is a popular Japanese dish that is often served cold with dipping sauce.