An overview is given of the state of teaching materials and aids used in schools in Japan. In section I, an outline is presented of the Japanese system of providing teaching materials. Several laws and regulations regarding the provision and use of textbooks are described, including: (1) school education law; (2) law concerning the organization and functions of local education administration; (3) school management regulation; (4) courses of study; (5) industrial education promotion law; (6) law for the promotion of science education; and (7) law concerning the National Treasury's share of compulsory education expenses. Attention is given to: the role of the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture; boards of education; and schools in respect to the promotion and use of teaching materials. The different types of teaching materials typically used in Japan are detailed in section II: books and other printed materials; maps and wall charts; and audiovisual aids. Section III discusses expenditures for teaching materials, including those covered by the government and those covered by parents and students. Section IV discusses the situation and effectiveness of the utilization of teaching materials, including books and other printed materials, maps and wall charts, and audiovisual aids. A list is presented of the dissemination rate of audiovisual equipment in the public schools. (JD)