Designed to provide students and teachers with opportunities to investigate the social, cultural, and historical traits of Japan, this study unit can be adapted to the needs of any group within the social studies curriculum (grades 4-12). An overview and outline on Japan covers the areas of geography, population, history, unique features (e.g., the people, food specialities, sports, and the arts). A suggested list of things about Japan to be learned and understood by students in grades 3-5, and a list of attitudes and values to be gained from the unit on Japan are given. Specific study skills, map and globe skills, and observation and learning skills that can be achieved are enumerated. A group of 53 developmental activities, primarily for grades 3-5 is listed. Several different aspects of Japanese culture are briefly discussed (e.g., Emperor Hirohito, the samurai, the geisha, Shinto, Zen, the home). A section of Japanese words, numbers, phrases, a pronunciation guide, a map of Japan and a multi-format final examination conclude the study unit. (PPB)