Japan is an island nation on the Asian continent with a population of approximately 126 million. The culture includes unique customs such as avoiding the number 4 due to its association with death, a practice of removing shoes indoors, and the acceptance of sleeping at work as a sign of hard work. Japanese cuisine prominently features rice and seafood, while sports like sumo and kendo are significant, with the people known for their respectful demeanor that may appear cold to outsiders.