This comprehensive report on education and industrial technology in Japan begins with general descriptions of the size of the country, its economy, and the Japanese people and their cultural values. Comparative data are then presented to demonstrate differences between Japanese and American workers. Japan's intense education orientation, both historically and currently, is noted as an introduction to a general description of the Japanese educational system, including educational facilities and environments; teachers and their union; student characteristics; the national curriculum from kindergarten through high school; and national examinations for admission to a high school or a university. The major strengths and weaknesses of educational practices in Japan are identified, as well as practices which the United States should avoid. The emphasis on technical training in higher education in Japan is then discussed, and an overview is provided of the current status of vocational and technical schools as well as the universities. A discussion of industrial technology in Japan provides insights into Japan's unique government/industry relationship, as well as an overview of its industrial policies, practices, and outlook; personnel policies/management methods; production control; and differences between the Japanese and U.S. philosophies of human resource development. The concluding section uses Japan as example in discussing the need for world cooperation. A 51-item reference list is provided. (DJR)