Japan, officially known as the Nihon-koku or Nippon-koku, is an island country in East Asia. It is situated in the northwest Pacific, forming an arc across the Pacific coast of northeastern Asia. Japan comprises four major islands, namely Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, along with numerous smaller islands that span over 1,500 miles together. With a total landmass of just under 150 thousand square miles, Japan’s geography is defined by its volcanic nature as part of the “Rim of Fire.” This unique location results in a wide variation of climate throughout the country. Japan shares its borders with Russia, Korea, and China, with the Korean Peninsula historically acting as a bridge between Japan and the vast civilization of China. Japan’s rich history is marked by its physical isolation, protecting it from invasion for much of its existence. Despite this isolation, the Japanese have demonstrated a curiosity and admiration for foreign cultures, incorporating foreign influences and transforming them into distinctly Japanese forms and styles. The country is governed through a parliamentary government with a constitutional monarchy, with the emperor serving as the chief of state and the prime minister as the head of government.