This class will explore the current situation and challenges facing a range of minority or minoritized groups as they navigate the education system in Japan. In particular we will investigate both access to and experience in schools and universities as well as opportunities for fulfilling work after graduation. The groups we will encounter include students with disabilities, ethnic minorities such as Ainu, Okinawan, ethnic Korean and Chinese; returnee students, immigrants, and bicultural students (haafu), sexual and gender minorities, and women. We will also explore the influences of social class, urban vs. rural location and other factors that shape access, experience and opportunity through education.