Japanese poetry is a rich and diverse tradition that includes various forms, the most famous being haiku and tanka. Haiku consists of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5, often capturing a moment in nature or a fleeting emotion. Tanka, on the other hand, has five lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5-7-7, allowing for more elaborate expression and storytelling. Throughout history, Japanese poetry has been influenced by cultural and historical contexts, including Shinto beliefs and Buddhism. Poets like Matsuo Bashō and Yosano Akiko have made significant contributions, exploring themes of nature, love, and the human experience. This poetic tradition continues to inspire writers and readers around the world.