Japan is renowned worldwide as a nation steeped in a culture that combines both tradition and modernity. Thousands of years as an isolated island country allowed Japan to undergo various cultural evolutions in solitude, creating a truly unique traditional culture. As connections with other countries grew, Japanese tradition was influenced and altered to create the unique culture of modern Japan. From within the grounds of the country's ancient shrines and temples; in the trendy streets of Harajuku; at a friendly izakaya; or at a lively festival, Japanese people still do everything possible to preserve their rich cultural heritage by practising tea ceremony, wearing kimono, and studying traditional arts and crafts from early childhood.