What have been the fundamental shifts in Japanese society over the past decade? And what has remained the same? What will the country look like in five years from now? Introducing you to all aspects of Japanese society, culture, politics, economy, geography and history, this book guides you through the country's enduring features, recent trends and the most interesting areas of analysis: Gender roles, gender fluidity and LBGTQ identities; Changing demographics; The current state of Japanese politics; Reflections on contemporary Japanese culture; Trends in Japan's external relations.