This article explores the unique aspects of Japan, a country of 126 million people in the Pacific Ocean. It has a long history and culture with influences from Chinese, Korean, and Western cultures. Japanese is the official language, spoken by all citizens and written in three different writing systems. The country consists of four main islands with varied terrain and active volcanoes such as Mount Fuji. Popular foods include sushi, ramen noodles, tempura vegetables or seafood, teriyaki chicken or beef, okonomiyaki pancakes, takoyaki octopus balls, miso soup and more. Japan is also known for its advanced technology from robots to high speed trains to gaming consoles. Traditional art forms such as calligraphy, painting, origami paper folding and ikebana flower arranging have been around since ancient times. Religion plays an important role in Japanese society with Shintoism and Buddhism being two of the oldest religions practiced today.