Course Description

Global Japan Studies provides students with a broad understanding of Japan's history, culture, and society through a global lens. Rather than viewing Japan in isolation, this course explores Japan's role in the international community and how it is perceived by the world. Students will utilise English-language texts, news, and media to analyse modern Japan through facts, theories, and case studies. This course is ideal for students preparing for international engagement, studying abroad, or careers in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Classes

Introduction to Global Japan Studies

Course overview and key terms. Students will define what a 'global perspective' on Japan Studies entails and discuss the importance of viewing Japan from the outside.

History of Japan: Prehistoric, Ancient, Classical, Feudal

Explore the pre-modern history of Japan, focusing on its early interactions with the rest of the world (China, Korea, Europe) and how these exchanges shaped early Japanese civilisation.

Japan's Global History

History: Early Modern and Modern

Explore the early modern and modern periods of Japan, focusing on the Meiji Restoration, conflict, and reconstruction. We analyse how Japan's interaction with Western powers facilitated its rise as a global power.

Japan's Global History

Philosophy: The Japanese Mind

What makes a person 'Japanese'? We explore fundamental concepts of Japanese social philosophy (such as Honne/Tatemae and Uchi/Soto) and how identity is constructed within Japan versus outside of Japan.

Politics: Government, Political Participation, Women Leaders

An overview of the Japanese political system and the structure of government. We discuss the significance of political participation, voter apathy among youth, and the challenges and opportunities for women leaders in Japan.

Economics: Japanese Economic Miracle

How did Japan achieve its rapid post-war recovery? We examine the factors that led to the 'Economic Miracle', why it was admired globally, and what life was like during the Bubble Era.

Economics: The Future for Young People in Japan

What happened after the bubble burst? We discuss the 'Lost Decades', the shift in employment systems, and what the economic future holds for the next generation of young people in Japan.

Activity: Your Japan Forecast

Society: Rich Japan, Poor Japan

How do people become rich in Japan? 

Where is the ‘hidden’ poverty in Japan? 

Society: Ageing Japan

Why does Japan have a super-ageing population? We analyse the demographic crisis, the challenges associated with a shrinking workforce, and potential solutions for supporting the elderly.

Society: Women in Japan

What does it mean to be a Japanese woman today? We explore gender roles, work-life balance, and how literature and global mindsets can offer new perspectives on the lives of women in Japan.

Society: Diversity in Japan

Is Japan embracing diversity? We examine the lives and histories of Japan's minority communities (including Ainu, Zainichi Koreans, and Okinawans) and the current state of immigration and multiculturalism.

Society: Social Issues

What are Japan's main social issues? This week focuses on phenomena such as hikikomori (social withdrawal) and mental health, discussing how society can better support vulnerable individuals.

Culture: Advertising Japan

How does Japan advertise itself to the world? We look at nation branding campaigns (like 'Cool Japan') and debate which tourism models Japan should follow for sustainable inbound tourism.

Activity: Which tourism model should Japan follow? 

Culture: Japanese Popular Culture

What is the global influence of Japanese popular culture? We compare the reach of Manga, Anime, and J-Pop against competitors in East Asia to determine who is winning the 'soft power' war.

Which is the leading East Asian popular culture worldwide? 

Culture: Traditional Japanese Culture

What is traditional culture and why should we save it? We discuss the value of preserving traditions in a modernising world.

Feedback on the overall course performance and final comments will be provided.