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.

Japan's geographical features divide it into six principal climatic zones: Hokkaid?, Sea of Japan, Central Highland, Seto Inland Sea, Pacific Ocean and Ryukyu Islands.

Two primary factors influence Japan's climate: a location near the Asian continent and the existence of major oceanic currents.

The climate from June to September is marked by hot, wet weather brought by tropical airflows from the Pacific Ocean and Southeast Asia. These airflows are full of moisture and deposit substantial amounts of rain when they reach land.

There is a marked rainy season, beginning in early June and continuing for about a month. It is followed by hot, sticky weather. Five or six typhoons pass over or near Japan every year.

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

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.