Ancient Japan witnessed the rise of clans and the formation of a centralized state ruled by an emperor. From the 8th to 12th centuries, the Heian period flourished, marked by artistic and literary achievements. Feudal Japan emerged in the 12th century, with samurai warriors playing a crucial role in society. The Kamakura and Muromachi periods were characterized by shogunate rule (hereditary military leadership) and internal conflicts. In 1603, the Tokugawa shogunate brought about a long era of peace and isolation, until Commodore Perry's arrival in 1853, leading to Japan's rapid modernization and imperial expansion. The 20th century saw Japan's militarization, culminating in World War II. After defeat, the nation underwent significant political and social changes under the Allied occupation. Japan has a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy. The Emperor, a symbolic figurehead, performs ceremonial duties. The government is headed by the Prime Minister, chosen from the dominant political party in the bicameral National Diet (parliament). Political stability, multiple parties, and regular elections characterize Japan's political landscape.

After World War II, Japan witnessed a remarkable post-war recovery, known as the "Japanese economic miracle," driven by manufacturing and export-led growth. Throughout the latter 20th century, Japan became a global economic powerhouse, but in the 1990s, it faced an economic downturn and a period of stagnation known as the "Lost Decade." Japan's ultra-easy monetary policy, also known as "Abenomics," was implemented by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's leadership to combat deflation and stimulate economic growth. Despite its intentions, achieving sustained inflation and robust economic growth proved challenging. The policy has led to a prolonged period of low-interest rates and a massive expansion of the central bank's balance sheet. Today, Japan remains one of the world's major economies, with advanced technology, strong industrial sectors, and a high standard of living. Japan is a major exporter of high-tech products, including automobiles, electronics, machinery, and robotics. Challenges such as an aging population, deflationary pressures, and global competition continue to shape its economic trajectory.