Japanese history is an intriguing mix of emperors, warlords and the famous samurai. Its modern history, however, is a battle for regional supremacy. The 1930s and 1940s saw Japan trying to extend control over Asia. During the Second World War, Japan allied with Germany for world supremacy. The war ended with two atomic bombs being dropped over Japan. Since the destruction, Japan has developed into one of the richest and most advanced countries in the world.

Japanese culture is a magical example of tradition adapted to suit a contemporary world. Unlike the country’s original Jōmon culture, Japanese customs today reflect a global influence. Japanese arts and social practices are a very important part of Japanese life. Many of these aspects of Japanese culture are popular world over, like ikebana, origami, the tea ceremony, manga etc.