This publication contains 20 learning activities for developing basic skills while teaching about Japan at the secondary level. The activities are self-contained and each consists of a short description, followed by a five-item true or false test and five open-ended questions for student practice. The learning activities are followed by a checklist and a test to be used as pretest and posttest evaluation devices, respectively. Five learning activities are provided for developing each skill. For developing skills in reading, the learning activities involve describing the emperor, diagraming the Ie (family system), classifying sources of information, using reference books and using continuing sources. The learning activities which develop skill in applying critical thinking involve students in analyzing first impressions of Tokyo, retelling comic stories, understanding why and how people smile in Japanese culture, interpreting company songs, and contrasting celebrations. To develop skills in interpreting geography, students analyze landscapes, draw inferences, interpret satellite images, distinguish among prefectures, and evaluate boundaries. Students develop skills in understanding the history of Japan by making a timeline, identifying turning points, interpreting disasters, determining chronology, and evaluating the past. A brief guide to the implementing of the learning activities is also provided. (SY)