Following a brief overview of the Japanese educational system and its programs for handicapped children, the role of microcomputers in Japan's schools is described. Most secondary and some elementary schools in Japan have acquired computers to enhance the processes of learning and teaching. In schools for the handicapped, computers are also being utilized, especially in programs for hearing and visually impaired students. A shortage of special education courseware has been a problem, and provincial education centers and individual teachers are developing appropriate courseware. Hardware developments include the design of special input-output devices designed to meet handicapped students' needs. Training is necessary to help teachers understand the technology and the role changes brought about by computers. Workshops are sponsored by the National Institute of Special Education to train special educators in the use of computers. Japan has several commercial electronic networks and bulletin boards that link scattered projects, but a need is felt for a network solely intended for special educators. Appended to the paper are statistical data on the numbers of special schools and numbers of handicapped students by handicapping condition, by type of school, and by grade level. (JDD)