From the tea ceremony, the Ukiyo-e prints, to MUJI and Pokémon, this course examines the birth and evolution of modern design and visual culture in Japan from the mid-19th century to the present day, with a focus on modernity. We will study Japanese design, such as woodblock prints, textiles, graphics, furniture, and gardens, situating them within socio-political contexts and intellectual and material histories. We will pay attention to the critical role that imperial and colonial identities played in the production and consumption of these objects. In addition, we will explore the literature and philosophies of aesthetics by modern Japanese thinkers and designers, incorporating them into our discussion.