Contemporary Japan: History, Politics, and Social Change since the 1980s presents a comprehensive examination of the causes of the Japanese economic bubble in the late 1980s and the socio-political consequences of the recent financial collapse.

Represents the only book to examine in depth the turmoil of Japan since Emperor Hirohito died in 1989, the Cold War ended, and the economy collapsed.

Provides an assessment of Japan's dramatic political revolution of 2009.

Analyzes how risk has increased in Japan, undermining the sense of security and causing greater disparities in society.

Assesses Japan's record on the environment, the consequences of neo-liberal reforms, immigration policies, the aging society, the US alliance, the Imperial family, and the 'yakuza' criminal gangs.

Selected as a 2011 Outstanding Academic Title by CHOICE.