This paper examines variations and shifts of emphasis in the 'internationalising education' discourse and practice, and attempts to identify patterns in these variations. By examining two sectors, compulsory education and universities, it identifies four main strands of discourse: (1) international (understanding) education ("kokusai rikai kyôiku") in the form of engagement with other (often Western) countries; (2) domestic internationalisation ("uchinaru kokusaika"); (3) human rights education ("jinken kyôiku") for "zainichi" Koreans; and (4) global human resources and competitiveness in the global arena. Each of the four strands has been taken up to differing degrees, in varying combinations over time, in discussing internationalisation. The paper shows how each of these strands has made a 'connection' to one of the other strands, depending on the sector, the level of educational administration and specific local circumstances; and in so doing over time how they have lead to varying discourses and practices. This advances our understanding of the discourse of 'internationalisation' in education as a historical product that is still a work in progress.