Freemasonry is one of the oldest and largest fraternal societies in the world and operates under the Grand Lodge system of government. The world's first Grand Lodge was founded in London, England in 1717. Today more than 170 Grand Lodges are in operation around the world, extending mutual recognition to each other. There are about several million members on a global basis. Freemasonry was introduced to Japan toward the end of the Edo era and the Grand Lodge of Japan came into being in 1957. This fraternity is charitable, philanthropic and educational in nature -charitable, as it aims at promoting happiness and prosperity for all men; philanthropic as it is based on altruism; and educational as it teaches morality and Brotherly Love so its members will put the teachings to practice. On this basis each member endeavors to improve himself and contribute to the betterment of society.