The Japanese economy is undergoing historic changes to realize a long-awaited recovery, led by technology and other industries. As a result, stakes are particularly high this holiday shopping season as consumer electronics plays an important role in the turnaround effort.
Tech industry banks on the 'cool factor'
Japanese companies face major tests in products such as digital cameras, high-end television sets and DVD players.
New alliances replace keiretsu dynasties
Global economic developments are forcing important changes in Japan's corporate culture, philosophy and workplace.
Images of an island nation's neon culture
Depictions of Tokyo's techno-pop society stand in stark contrast to ancient icons of a country obsessed with tradition.