JAPAN There are 140 people competing in the Winter Olympic games.

People of the land of the rising sun. 140 of the 127,368,088 in Japan are going to the Winter Olympics. For most of Japan's history its borders were closed to foreigners. As a result, Japan's society is very homogeneous, composed of 98.5% ethnic Japanese.

Land of Japan Over 70% of Japan is mountainous terrain with approximately 18% land mass suitable for human settlement. Over 70% of Japan consists of mountains. The country also has over 200 volcanoes.

Language of Japan Japanese is the official language of Japan. Many Japanese also have some ability in writing and speaking English as it is a mandatory part of the curriculum in the Japanese educational system.

Climate of Japan The climate of Japan varies considerably depending on the region and season. Summer is usually very hot and humid, known to the Japanese as "mushiatsui".

Religion of Japan The two major religions in Japan are Shinto and Buddhism. While religion does not play a major role in the life of the average Japanese, religious ceremonies are usually held at births, weddings, and funerals.

World Heritage Sites of japan As of June, 2012 Japan has 12 cultural and 4 natural sites designated as World Heritage sites.

Culture of the land of the rising sun Japanese culture is rich and diverse, dating back to 10,000 BC when the Jomon people first settled in Japan. It is widely known for its traditional arts as well as its contemporary pop culture. Today in Japan it is still possible to see kimono-clad women shuffling down the street with umbrellas overhead, or oversized sumo wrestlers battling it out the ring. A sophisticated cuisine, unique social customs, and refined performing and visual arts also contribute to a culture which has become attractive, and sometimes fashionable, to many foreigners.

Weird facts about Japan Sumo wrestlers eat a stew called Chankonabe to fatten up. Many restaurants in the Ryogoku district of Tokyo serve this nabe (Japanese word for stew). Raw horse meat is a popular food in Japan. More than 70% of Japan consists of mountains, including more than 200 volcanoes.

Strange Laws in Japan Hundreds of years ago in Japan anyone who attempted to leave the country was instantly executed. It is illegal to cook Fugu (Blow Fish) for more than 80 seconds. Fugu contains deadly poison in the organs. Despite of the risk, fugu dishes are considered special feasts in Japan.

Sites I used Ducker institute.com Facts-about-Japan.com Listverse.com crazygaijin.com