Highlighting JAPAN

through articles

By featuring articles written by experts in many different genres, this online magazine provides people all over the world with information on modern Japan.

September 2008

Operation Innovation

COVER STORY

Operation Innovation
As part of its 2008 Basic Policies for Economic and Fiscal Management and Structural Reform, this year has seen the establishment of a number of special zones for cutting-edge medical treatment. We take a look at some promising examples.

Front Cover

A laboratory worker prepares a rack of test tubes prior to testing.

Strategy for Technological Innovation

A new initiative to support innovative technology is set to produce a strong economic ripple effect, says Taizo Nishikawa of the Cabinet Office.

ES Cells and the Medicine of the Future

Norio Nakatsuji, Japan's leading authority in the field, describes the current state of stem cell research in Japan and explains its application to regenerative medicine.

The Computer-aided Surgeon

Professor Takeyoshi Dohi, a leader in Japan's research into surgery-assisting robots, explains the objectives of and technologies involved in medical robots.

Invigorating Healthcare

Professor Yoko Ishikura, a member of the Council for Science & Technology Policy, answers our questions about innovation in Japan's healthcare industry.

Full Marks for Japan's G8 Diplomacy

Makoto Iokibe, president of the National Defense Academy, hails the Japanese government's role in the signing of numerous important agreements at this summer's G8 Summit in Japan.

Championing the Cause of Africa

World leaders at the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit this summer confirmed a range of important initiatives for African development. Sadaharu Kataoka comments.

Japan-Brazil Year of Exchange

On the centennial of Japanese emigration to Brazil, we introduce some of the many Japanese and Brazilians working to build a bridge between the present and future of their two countries.

MRJ to Take Off

For the first time in the history of Japanese aviation, a domestic manufacturer is preparing to commercialize a passenger jet aircraft. Takanori Maema reports.

Back to Bamboo

David Capel appraises the enduring appeal of bamboo as a natural resource.

Cooler Coolants

Can natural alternatives to CFC coolants serve as a solution to the environmental problems associated with refrigerators and air conditioners? Masaki Yamada introduces some promising new Japanese technologies.

Step into the Abyss!

Masaki Yamada previews the Yokohama Triennale, Japan's largest scale international exhibition of contemporary art.

School Dot Com

Tony McNicol visits Digital Hollywood University, an institution training the digital creators and businessmen of the future.

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