Fact+sheet

Fact Sheet
WHO: Japanese WHAT: Japan has a fascinating and multifaceted culture, it is steeped in the deepest of traditions dating back thousands of years; on the other hand it is a society in a continual state of rapid flux, with continually shifting fads and fashions and technological development that constantly pushes back the boudaries of the possible. It could therefore be said that Japan is a country of stark contradictions and is in part this that makes it such a fascinating country to visit and unique tourist destination. Japan has an incredible variety of museums, galleries, shrines and temples to keep you preoccupied for many days. In the city of Tokyo there is a wide spectrum of places to visit,, from the very distinguished Imperial Palace, home of the Emperor and past shogunates, to the legendary Tokyo Tower, an urban landmark in many Godzilla movies. WHEN: Early in Japan's history, society was controlled by a ruling elite of powerful clans. The Meiji period, also known as the Meiji era, is a Japanese era which extended from September 1868 through July 1912.This period represents the first half of the Empire of Japan. In 1867-68, the Tokugawa government fell because of heavy political pressure, and the [| power of Emperor Meiji was restored] . WHERE: Japan is located in the Northern Hemisphere. It lies off the east coast of Asia and has four main islands: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. On its west boundary is the Sea of Japan; and on its east and south boundary is the Pacific Ocean. WHY: You get to experience a new culture. Learn new things, eat diff foods, learn how most people live on a daily basis, and maybe make lots of new friends. Their language is awesome and I would love to learn it. It may change the way you feel and think about that country too. Basically, Japan is part of our history and it'll be really nice to travel there. HOW: Japan is known throughout the world for its economic successes, yet Japanese society remains an enigma to many outside its borders. Japanese society underwent great social changes after 1945. The changes brought new problems, such as industrial pollution, the entrance examination "hell" and social anomie. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">(http://www.mongabay.com/reference/country_studies/japan/SOCIETY.html)