Multi-Byte Characters ( Japanese ) Stored in MySQL

[mmilano]

I am about to begin to work on a project which will require the storage of Japanese Multi-Byte Characters.

I've never worked with this character set before and I've read conflicting information as to if and how MySQL can store these.

So , I ask whoever will answer:

1. Can MySQL Store Multi-Byte Characters?
2. Can I use fields: varchar and text?

Any insight on the matter would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!