Abstract This paper begins with a profile of Japanese youth which compares them statistically and sociologically with those of other nations. Next, I attempt to differentiate between “adolescent” and “youth,” and explain the adolescent as a consequence of industrial society. I also try to divide youth culture into three types: partial culture, sub‐culture. and counter‐ culture. Finally, I discuss the history of Japanese youth culture, primarily since the coming of the industrial age after World War 11. As examples of adolescent cultures, I refer to “Taiyo‐zoku.” “Zenkyoto,” “Hippie,” “New Young,” and “Shin‐jinrui.” Among these, “Zenkyoto” and “Hippie” are important as counter‐cultures; they reject the prevailing society and actively seek a new post‐industrial society. Adolescent sub‐culture. on the other hand, has dwindled since the decline of the “Zen‐ kyoto” around 1970. Since 1980, Japanese youth can be grouped into three main categories. The majority enjoy affluence and consumer goods, like the “Crystal‐zoku,” who are obsessed with famous brands. They are in the partial culture, and are oriented to super‐industrial society. The second group is made up of those who have unique adolescent cultures. like the “Shin‐jinrui,” who are sensuous and highly responsive to information. They are in the sub‐culture, and are oriented to the modified industrial society. Minority groups who take action to protect their interests and human rights, like ecological groups derived from the counter‐culture movement, comprise the third category. T