Asia Pacific Perspectives: Japan+, December 2005, Volume 3, Number 8
 

Features:

• Character: Doraemon Charms the World  The popular Japanese cartoon character Doraemon is now loved the world over. What is the secret behind the lasting popularity of this robotic cat?
   
• Physics: From Neutrons to Neutrinos To mark the 100th anniversary of some of Einstein's greatest achievements, we review the successes of Japan's Nobel Prize-winning physicists.actions taking place in a variety of fields.
   
• Special Feature: 60 Years of Postwar Progress In the 60 years that have passed since WWII, Japan has made giant strides. We take an in-depth look at the postwar progress of Japan in areas such as its economy, diplomacy and lifestyle.
   
• Volunteers: 730 Unforgettable Days The JOCV program enables young Japanese to carry out volunteer work in developing countries. Forty years after its launch, the program is still going strong.
   
• Interview: Yoshikazu Takaya A leading academic considers that the confusion being caused by global-scale problems should be met by a new world order based upon the coexistence of multiple civilizations.
   
• Traditional Art: Wood Crafting  Master wood crafter Akira Murayama repeatedly strives to craft objects that will be treasured through the years as daily items that provide pleasure and comfort for their users.

Columns:

• Otaku Culture

• Structural Reforms

• Lifestyle

• Environment

• Government

• Selection/Letters