ABOUT

Japan is not the name that the Japanese use to call their country, they use Nippon which means the suns origin, often translated to land of the rising sun.

Japan is an island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula, Most of the islands are mountainous and many volcanic. It gained independence in 660 B.C. when Japan was traditionally founded by Emperor JIMMU.

The capital city is Tokyo. Japan's has many attractions and is the third richest country in the world. The past meets the present in modern-day Japan, with its rich cultural history that dates back millenia and ultra-modern influences in technology, entertainment and lifestyle.

Popular tourist attractions alongside the national parks and museums include Tokyo, Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Kyoto and of course Mount Fuji.

CULTURE

Japanese culture has evolved greatly over the years, from the country's original J?mon culture to its contemporary culture, which combines influences from Asia, Europe and North America.

Traditional Japanese arts include crafts i.e. origami, performances, traditions and cuisine.

The fusion of traditional woodblock printing and Western art led to the creation of manga, a typically Japanese comic book format that is now popular within and outside Japan.

It also takes work seriously, Japan has the second largest economy in the world and its role in the international community is considerable.

CLIMATE

RELIGION

84% are Shinto and Buddhist, the remaining 16% comprises of other religions including Christians

SPORTS

Traditionally, sumo is considered Japan's national sport and it is one of the most popular spectator sports in Japan.

Martial arts such as judo, karate and kendo are also widely practiced and enjoyed.

Other popular sports include baseball, football, motor racing and golf.

GAMES HOST