Traditional Japanese mythology maintains that Japan was founded by
the Emperor Jinmu in the 7th century B.C. Jinmu started a line of succession
that continues to the present.
Japanese animation, or anime, is heavily influenced by manga, or
comic book art. In fact, many animated programs grow out of popular
comics.
The Japanese tea ceremony requires years of training, often conducted
at a tea school or at tea clubs based in high schools and universities.
After World War II, Kenzo Tange, perhaps Japan’s best-known
architect, was put in charge of the reconstruction of Hiroshima. His
Peace Park was designed to make the city a symbol of the human longing
for peace.
Renga, a form of collaborative poetry, requires at least three or
four participants. Thanks to the Internet, renga composition is enjoying
renewed popularity in Japan.
The end of December and beginning of January are especially busy
for Japan’s postal service. That’s because it is customary
to send New Year's Day postcards to friends and family members.
In 1964, judo, Japan’s celebrated martial art, became an Olympic
sport for men. It wasn’t until 1992 that it became an Olympic
sport for women as well.