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This introductory text on modern Japanese politics aims to explain the secrets of the Liberal Democratic Party's long hold on power, their removal from office, and subsequent options for Japan in a rapidly changing international and domestic environment. The authors focus on politics and parties, the administrative system, and the historical context of the postwar parties; the organization of the Liberal Democratic Party and the behaviour of LDP politicians; and the dynamism of the policy making process. The latter is explained through examination of the role of the LDP, bureaucracy and interest groups in budget making and in response to the Gulf crisis. Following their analysis of the period of LDP rule, the authors examine the future direction of Japanese politics. Japan is at a political crossroads. This text shoulsd be of interest to those who want to learn more about how Japan has reached this crossroads, and the future direction it may take. It should be of relevance to students of postwar Japanese politics and history.