During 2006, Trevor W. Harrison lived, worked, and travelled in Japan. Written on the cusp of several notable events that shook Japan while he was there, this work begins with an overview of Japan's history and politics, from post-world War II up until the present day, then examines Japan's role in the 21st century. Topics include: the coming to power of a new and fervently nationalist right-wing government dedicated to changing Japan's constitution, including the role of its military; a series of political scandals that rocked the establishment; the increased threat of a nuclear North Korea; and external pressures wrought by Japan's long-time mentor, the United States. As a result of these events, Japan's government, and the country itself, is increasingly caught between a series of obdurate, sometimes hostile, choices: on the one hand, its geographic location within Asia, and on the other, its political and economic relationships with the West. But these events are important not only for Japan; they also present challenges and opportunities for the rest of the world. Also included is a selection of Haiku-inspired poems written during the author's stay, many of which are political or cultural in nature. Book jacket.