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Who was elected Prime Minister of Japan in 2001?

Junichiro Koizumi. A strong, yet in many ways eccentric leader, the self-confessed Elvis fanatic created controversy by vowing to visit Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo once each year during his term. Many of Japan`s Class-A war criminals are buried there.

Which martial art comes from the Japanese words meaning `empty hand`?

Karate. Karate traces its origins to Okinawa, where rulers early in the 17th century implemented a strict no weapons policy for security forces.

Which Japanese city was devastated by an earthquake on January 17, 1995?

Kobe. Over 5000 people died as a result of this earthquake and neighbouring cities such as Osaka, Kyoto and Nara also suffered extensive damage.

Which is the third largest of Japan`s four main islands?

Kyushu. Kyushu is the third largest island in the Japanese archipelago. The other three are not islands.

Which name is shared by a railway company and a Pacific League baseball team?

Kintetsu. The Kintetsu line connects Osaka with Nara, Kyoto and Nagoya. The Kintetsu Buffaloes won the Pacific League pennant in 2001.

What was the number one Japanese brewer between 1948 and 2002?

Kirin. Kirin, which produces the famous "ichi-ban" brand, was overtaken by Asahi in 2002 after dominating the market for more than half a century.

Which company, Japan`s fourth largest motorcycle manufacturer, has the slogan "Let the good times roll"?

Kawasaki. Kawasaki is based in a city of the same name just south of Tokyo. The company also manufacturers rail cars, jet skis and industrial equipment. In the latter half of the 20th century, Kawasaki lagged behind Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha in domestic motorcycle sales.

Which ancient martial art features Japanese samurai swordsmanship?

Kendo. Literally translated, Kendo means "the way of the sword" and its principles date from the 12th century.

Which sport is played by professional teams such as the Kashima Antlers, Kashiwa Reysol and Kawasaki Frontale?

Soccer. All three teams play in the J-League, instituted in Japan in 1993.

What was the capital city of Japan until 1869?

Kyoto. Kyoto is the cultural heartland of Japan. A total of 17 buildings in Kyoto are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites.