This course is designed to explore the contemporary Japanese culture and language from historical, social, and linguistic aspects. It will introduce the brief history of Japanese culture and language, including its writing system, and discuss how they have changed over time. The course will especially emphasize the linguistic aspect of the contemporary Japanese society and culture by drawing examples from anthropological, linguistic, and socio-linguistic studies. Major topics are traditional and modern writing systems, diversity among the speakers, and language in pop culture. Additional topics include gender differences, geographical differences, style shifting, and register. No prior knowledge of Japanese language/culture is required.