Japanese culture has always had a strong appeal to foreigners. There seems to be something mystical about the way Japanese society is structured.

Part of this mysticism comes from the seclusion from the outside world for centuries during the Edo period, which prevented foreign cultures from influencing Japanese culture, giving it a very distinct feel.

In modern day Japan still many elements of the medieval Japanese culture can be found. Martial arts, for instance, still play an important part in the education of children. And when walking through Kyoto you are bound to still come across Geisha and Maiko, and during the many festivals Japan has, or at special occasions, people still wear traditional clothing.

While most exotic food is now available world wide, Japanese food has manifested itself as a luxury, and is often priced accordingly. Sushi and sashimi are among Japan's most famous dishes. But Japan too has been influenced by other countries. Chinese, Korean and Mongolian dishes are so integrated into the Japanese cuisine, that even most Japanese don't know it's actually foreign food.

Religion in Japan is diverse and tolerant. Most common are Buddhism, Shintoism and Christianity, but there is also a wide variety of other religions. While in the rest of the world most religions are exclusive, meaning that one can only practice one religion at a time, the Japanese often have more than one religion.

The mixture of advanced technology and ancient culture makes Japan unique in the world.