Nanophotonics in Japan

Progress in nanophotonics in Japan emphasizes that the true nature of nanoophotonics is to realize "qualitative innovation" in photonic devices, fabrication techniques, and system design by utilizing novel functions and phenomena caused by optical near-field interactions. Such innovation and the evolution into related sciences are exemplified. Nanophotonics research is being undertaken in Japan through several academic initiatives as well as national projects.