This course aims to develop professional/academic Japanese communication skills while studying topical issues of Japan. The overarching theme of the course is “the year 2015, how Japan is changing.” The controversial issues and changes in Japanese government’s defense policy and diplomatic stance with its neighboring countries will be discussed in the first half of the course. The second half will focus on the social and technological changes that are and will be occurring towards the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Students regularly read/listen to relevant editorials and articles written by experts, analyze and discuss the issues, and write their opinions. Students are also given opportunities to engage in research on the topic of their interests and deepen their understanding.