10 Thirty-minute programs
Grade(s):  9 -12, College
Curriculum:  Foreign Language/Japanese

A fascinating series designed to introduce students to the Japanese language, culture and society.  In this engaging beginner's course, each program is based on a sociocultural theme.  The material is shot on location all over Japan and is complemented by short studio and animated graphic sequences.  Programs capture the Japanese language and its people from a foreigners' viewpoint and are narrated in English.

Support Materials:  Course Book, 5 audio-cassette tapes.

Program Titles & Descriptions:

1.   Introductions   (28:58)
This program is a general introduction to the series and introduces the reporter and two Japanese families who appear in each program.  The geography and origin of Kanji is explained.  Learn how to introduce yourself in Japanese.

2.   All in the Family  (28:57)
The family is the cornerstone of Japanese society.  Learn how to greet and use set phrases in Japanese by viewing the daily life of the Japanese family.  Features an American woman who is married to a Japanese salariman.

3.   All in a Day's Work  (28:47)
A close-up of the Japanese at work by visiting a commercial agency, automobile workshop, forestry and other work places.  Presents the language and etiquette that are frequently used in business, including the voices of foreigners who are working in Japan.

4.   Shop Around   (29:05)
"The customer is god". This distinct Japanese business spirit is examined by visiting various districts and learning words that are used in shopping.  Introduces an exhibition of a North London potter and Koshino Junko's Tokyo Collection.

5.   Schooltime  (29:10)
Focuses on the educational system which has been regarded as the key to Japan's economic achievement.    Takes up the issues of cram school which symbolizes entrance examination war.  Follow a school excursion to Hiroshima, target of the world's first atomic bomb, and to Miyajima, one of the most beautiful sights of Japan.

6.   On the Road  (28:57)
Visiting Taugaru with travel writer Alan Booth who talks about the fascinating Japanese inns and hot springs.  Also, explaining about box lunches and the 53 post stations of Tokaido highway while traveling on the bullet train.  Learn how to buy train tickets in Japanese.

7.   Eating, Drinking, and Entertaining  (28:48)
"Tsukioi", examines this indispensable process of building and promoting business relationships in Japan.  Includes an actual scene of a settai and the opinions from foreigners.  Also introduces coffee shops, Japanese restaurants, bars, and variety of places to eat and drink.

8.   Time Out   (28:55)
Focuses on the Japanese people at play; pachinko, TV, sports, traditional Japanese pursuits (ikebana, calligraphy, etc.), hot springs, and other activities.  Novelist C. W. Nichol who spends his leisure time presenting nature talks about environmental protection.

9.   Give and Take   (29:05)
Focuses on what Japanese think about traditions and their opinions about religion through rituals such as gift giving, gift buying, exchanging business cards. giving offerings to ancestors, and etc.  Also introduces a sumo wrestler from England who lives in this traditional society and Japan's only gaijin kimono artist.

10. Japan Tomorrow   (29:00)
Japanese young and old talking about their hopes for the future and forecasting the lifestyles of the 90's.  Also a western correspondent offers the final perspective on Japanese language and culture from a foreigner's viewpoint.