Japan is known as a stylish, technologically advanced country, where futuristic bullet trains speed between cutting-edge neon and glass super-cities, and uber-cool gadgets are a way of life. But despite its space-age gloss, this is also a country with a proud and ancient history. Timeless traditions and honor codes remain key features of daily life; and graceful palaces, mysterious shrines, and picturesque mountains are touchstones from an intriguing past.