This textbook is a new and unique course designed for both teaching in groups and self-studying Japanese.The course contains dialogues, common expressions in Japanese, as well as useful information about the culture of Japan . After studying the material of the textbook, the student will be able to express himself in Japanese as a native speaker would do in the corresponding situation.The main objective of the textbook is to develop the skills of using the Japanese language as a means of communication. The course, which is based on an abstract-functional approach, is a structured program designed to methodically develop students' language skills. In addition, an integral part of each lesson in this textbook is the opportunity to practice both written and spoken Japanese.Each lesson begins with another plot of the ongoing story and is accompanied by explanations and exercises that give students the opportunity to actively participate in the lesson.(CD included with paper edition only.)