Introduction to Japan Instructor: Matthew Allen Course Objective: To provide a broad introduction to Japan, demonstrating the uniqueness of its culture and highlighting some of the differences between our countries. The course can also act as a prep course for any class members who plan on visiting Japan Delivery Content: A combination of lecture and discussion, with some hands-on and some mid-week prep assignments, which could be optional (e.g. watching a film or preparing a particular Japanese dish) Course Outline: SESSION 1: GEOGRAPHY/NOTEWORTHY SITES An exploration of some of the most popular and interesting destinations in Japan, with a focus on sites the instructor has visited, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine. SESSION 2: CULTURE/CUSTOM A discussion of various facets of Japanese culture, including the Wabi-Sabi aesthetic (which includes pottery, poetry, and flower-arranging, among other activities), Festivals, and the Japanese tea ceremony. SESSION 3: MILITARISM/WWII A look at Japan’s history of militarism, with a particular focus on WWII. SESSION 4: RELIGION A discussion on the original Japanese religion (Shintoism), the advent of Buddhism, a period of aggression toward Christian missionaries, and finally, the arrival and gradual acceptance of Christianity and other newer fringe religions. SESSION 5: ARTS A look at various Japanese artists from a variety of mediums, both old and contemporary. Will touch on art, books, and cinema. SESSION 6: LANGUAGE A brief look at and explanation of the four “alphabets” used in Japan (Kanji, Hiragana, Katakana, and Romaji), and an introduction of common phrases useful for a visitor, as well as other interesting words and phrases unique to the Japanese language. SESSION 7: SPORTS/RECREATION A look at the national enthusiasm and interest surrounding High School baseball (somewhat reminiscent of March Madness in the U.S.) and Sumo wrestling, as well as the popularity of pachinko parlors, Karaoke, Japanese bathhouses, and other activities either unique to Japan or simply much more popular there than here (badminton, table tennis, etc.). SESSION 8: CUISINE A brief discussion of various teas and other non-alcoholic beverages, then moving on to alcoholic beverages, such as Sake and Shotchu. The bulk of the session will then be spent

looking at the origins of popular dishes and the differences in signature dishes depending on the region.