Japan+ Asia-Pacific Perspectives , November 2006, Volume 4, Number 7
 

Features:

• Prime Minister: Toward A Beautiful Shinzo Abe has been appointed as Japan's new Prime Minister.
   
• Special Feature: Gift From Nature Japan is home to three world natural heritage sites: Shiretoko, the Shirakami Mountains and Yakushima. We look at their rich ecosystems and outstanding natural landscapes, and examine ongoing conservation efforts.
   
• Contemporary Art: Community, Art And Nature  A recent major art festival sought to revitalize the links between community, art and nature.
   
• Victim Support: Bridge To Chernobyl  A Japanese NPO is providing support to children who suffer from the effects of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
   
• Interview: Ryo Matsumoto  A long-time aficionado of Indonesian shadow puppet theater discusses its history, art and social influence.
   
• Cool Japan: Hiroshi Sugimoto-Alchemist Of Light And Dark We focus in on the contrasting works of this internationally renowned photographer.
   

Columns:

• Charscters

• Tourism

• Lifestyle

• Environment

• Government

• Selection/Letters