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This site provides educators and specialists in Japan Studies a space for sharing, discussing and developing teaching ideas and resources about Japan, especially as they relate to K-12 classrooms. The site features thought-provoking essays; classroom-ready lesson plans; an area for asking and answering questions; resources including historical documents, maps and images; and member profiles. In addition to user-generated content, the editorial team will develop original materials organized around different themes. We invite you to contribute materials of your own and join the discussion.

Resource: Ritual Objects in Todaiji

by About Japan Editors, August 04, 2010
Photo of ritual objects in front of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Todaiji Temple in Nara.

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Lesson: Tanabata: Japan's Star Festival

Grade Level: Elementary
Subject Area: English and Language Arts,Visual & Performing Arts
by About Japan Editors, July 01, 2010
Bring Japan's Star Festival, Tanabata, to the classroom and experience a Japanese summer holiday through visual aids, storytelling and many hands-on activities!

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Resource: From Hiroshima to New York: Survivors of the 1945 A-Bombing of Hiroshima Discuss Their Experiences, Paper Cranes & 9/11

by About Japan Editors, April 13, 2010
Masahiro Sasaki and Tsugio Ito, suvivors of the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima, discuss their memories of that day and its impact on their lives.

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Resource: Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament

by About Japan Editors, July 13, 2010
Photo of the 2010 Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament, with McDonald's sponsorship banners prominently on display.

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Lesson: Living Efficiently: Daily Energy-Saving Practices from Totoro and Today

Grade Level: Elementary,Secondary
Subject Area: Science & Environmental Science
by Yen Pham, April 01, 2009
Hayao Miyazaki's much beloved film, My Neighbor Totoro, is used to spark discussion about daily energy-saving practices.

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Education Programs are made possible by generous funding from The Freeman Foundation.

Generous support for Education Programs is provided by Continental Airlines.

Additional support is provided by The Norinchukin Foundation, Inc., Chris A. Wachenheim, Joshua N. Solomon, Jon T. Hutcheson, Lesley Nan Haberman, Joshua S. Levine and Nozomi Terao.

Student and Family Programs are supported by the New York City
Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.