The cultural diversity of Japan can provide a rewarding learning experience for children of all grade levels. This teaching unit includes resources and ideas for the study of Japanese society, art, folklore, and poetry. Included among the instructional objectives are: (1) children will compare U.S. lifestyles with Japanese lifestyles by reading various books; (2) children will put the information they have acquired to use by making replicas or simulations; (3) children will produce origami figures in order to develop a greater understanding of this Japanese art form; (4) children will recognize the difference between reality and fantasy after reading and discussing Japanese folktales; and (5) children will develop an appreciation for Japanese poetry by writing their own haiku. A bibliography is included. (BZ)