Japan provides the world with many great things. From a rich culture to world-leading developments in technology, Japan is home to great people doing great things. At the 2012 Olympics in London, they hope to show off just what some of these great people can do. Here are some of Japan’s top Olympic stars you’re sure to be hearing about.

Saori Yoshida: Women’s Wrestling 

While the Women’s Freestyle Wrestling event probably isn’t the most talked about competition at the Olympics each year, it has been home to some exciting match-ups over the years. Saori Yoshida has been at the forefront of that excitement more often than not, and that is because her skill and drive have made her a nine-time world champ in the 55 kg weight division. She took home the gold in 2004 and 2008, and most suspect she’ll take home the gold again this year in London.

Koji Murofushi: Hammer Throwing 

Though he didn’t take home a medal in 2008, Koji Murofushi’s big gold medal win at 2004′s Olympic Games suggests he’ll be tough to beat in London. Over the years, Murofushi has set more than a fair share of records in the event, including beating a long-standing record set by his father Shigenobu, who also happens to be a former Olympic athlete. With the drive to succeed in his blood, Murofushi is sure to be one to watch at this year’s games.

Kosuke Kitajima: Men’s Breaststroke 

Kosuke Kitajima didn’t just win a gold medal during 2004′s Olympics; he won two. And he didn’t stop there as he again won 2 gold medals in the 2008 Olympics for the same events. Winning the gold in both the 100m and 200m Men’s Breaststroke for two consecutive Olympics, it would be hard to imagine that anyone wouldn’t favor Kitajima to win over his opponents. If he takes home the gold again this year, his fans in Japan will definitely have something to talk about.

Japan Women’s National Soccer Team 

Rounding out the list of Japan’s Olympic hopefuls are the members of the Japan Women’s Soccer Team. While they only finished in 4th place in the 2008 Olympics, Japan was able to overcome the United States soccer team during the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals, proving that they are one of the best soccer teams in the world. With a world championship under their collective belts, the Japan Women’s National Soccer Team is almost certainly hungry for the gold in London.

Keeping Tabs on the Japanese Olympians 

If you want to follow the ups and downs of these Japanese Olympic athletes, you’ll want to be sure to watch the Olympics live this July and August. While watching from the comfort of your own home is sure to be a popular option, if you want to see the games in person there is still hope. Tickets can still be had in places, and some sweepstakes like the one recently held by Chase Sapphire card and the Chase Freedom offer could allow you to win a trip there for free.