Years of Trial: Japan in the 1990s, edited by Masuzoe Yôichi, was published in April 2000 by Japan Echo Inc. Looking back at the change that swept through Japan during the last turbulent decade and examining the nation as it charts its course for the twenty-first century, Years of Trial is a selection of essays from the English-language journal Japan Echo, which since 1974 has presented translations of key Japanese commentary and other articles on the country's society, economy, government, and culture. The essays paint a comprehensive picture of the last 10 years and are accompanied by new pieces commissioned especially for the book. Years of Trial will prove valuable to researchers specializing in Japanology, Asian studies, or international relations, as well as anyone interested in the recent history of Japan.http://www.japanecho.com/yt/years.html)

This book is a selection of essays,most of which appeared in Japan Echo Magazine between 1990 and 1999.They have been supplemented with an introduction and other editorial comments by Masuzoe Yoiichi,as well as with articles on receet issues chosen specifically for the publication.

The essays are full or partial translation of significant articles by prominent commentator originally written for a Japanese audience and published in leading Japanese-language periodicals.

Japanese names are given in their original order,surname first.