Partly inspired by global-level competitions such as the Olympics, Paralympics and Rugby World Cup on its horizon, Japan's sporting environment is undergoing major alterations, including the introduction of a new government agency to oversee all sports in the country.

The October 2015 issue of Highlighting Japan examines the history and evolution of sports in Japan, how Japanese athletes are faring internationally, the country's new emphasis on how athletics fits into the lives of its citizens, and various intriguing aspects of Japan's sporting culture, running the gamut from Paralympians and FIFA soccer referees to sumo wrestlers and modern practitioners of ninjutsu.