Japan

History
At the end of the last Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago, a culture called the
Jomon developed.

Around 400 B.C. by the Yayoi people, introduced metal-working, rice

cultivation to Japan.

Buddhism came to Japan during the Asuka Period, 538-710, as did the
Chinese writing system.

The first strong central government developed in Nara (710-794); the

aristocratic class practiced Buddhism and Chinese calligraphy, while
agricultural villagers followed Shintoism.

From the years 794 to 1185, the samurai warrior class developed. The samurai
lords, called "shogun," took over governmental power in 1185.

The Taisho Emperor (1912-1926). His chronic illnesses allowed the Diet of
Japan to democratize the country further. Japan formalized its rule over Korea
and seized northern China during World War I.

The Showa Emperor, Hirohito, (1926-1989) oversaw Japan's aggressive

expansion during World War II, its surrender, and its rebirth as a modern,
industrialized nation.

Interesting facts
Many couples in Japan celebrate Christmas like Valentine's Day. It is
definitely more of a "lovers" holiday in Japan.
 More than 70% of Japan consists of mountains, including more than 200
volcanoes.
Mt. Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan, is an active volcano
In Japan there are more pets than children. The country has a lower birth
rate in the world.
An episode of the Pokemon series caused epilepsy in 685 children

Traditions
Zabuton Throwing
Sumo stadiums typically offer tatami sections with zabuton pillow seats. It's
customary to express your frustration with the result of a sumo match by
throwing your zabuton pillow.

Koinobori
Koinobori are carp-shaped wind socks that are used to celebrate Children's
Day in Japan. They are related to an ancient Chinese story about a carp who
swims up river against the current to become a dragon. The vigorous
movement of Koinobori in the wind is thought to represent a healthy childhood.
Millions of Koinobori are put up all over Japan around the time of Golden Week
beginning in late April. They are traditionally placed by rivers and in front of the
homes of families with children.

Fukusasa Lucky Bamboo Branches

Several shrines in Japan hold a market to sell bamboo branches decorated
with lucky items to local business people in January. The biggest of these
events, the Toka Ebisu Festival in Osaka attracts more than a million people.
Armies of Miko are hired to decorate the branches known as Fukusasa.

Festival or celebrations (parades)

Nebuta Matsuri (2nd to the 7th of August) lantern floats
 Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival (February)
Tenjin Matsuri (24th and the 25th of July)

Famous people from Japan

Akira Kurosawa (Director)
Shigeru Miyamoto (programmer)
Akira Toriyama (manga and game artist)
Hayao Miyazaki (director)

Educational System
Shgakk (Elementary School)
Chgakk (Secondary School)
Ktgakk (High School)
College National Academy, (Medical, Veterinary, Pharmaceutical School),
National Defense. Community College, Vocational School. College of
technology.