The Journal of Japanese Studies was established in 1974 as a multidisciplinary forum for communicating new information, new interpretations, and recent research results concerning Japan to the English-reading world. Its founders sought to fill a vital need for better understanding of Japan and its people and thus chose to publish not only in-depth research articles by scholars from around the world (including Japan) but also reviews of current books on Japan and translations of articles of unusual interest from influential molders of public opinion in Japan. From the outset, the Journal has published broad, exploratory articles suggesting new analyses and interpretations, articles longer than many journals can publish, and substantial reviews and review articles of books published in Western languages and in Japanese. Today the Journal continues to facilitate communication and dialogue about Japan and with Japan. The Journal has long been recognized as a leading journal in the Japan studies field and is considered an invaluable resource by those seeking to understand Japan and the myriad components of Japanese society.

The Society for Japanese Studies, a not-for-profit corporation of the State of Washington, was incorporated in 1974 primarily for the purpose of founding a permanent publication, the Journal of Japanese Studies. The Society also occasionally organizes symposia and other activities focused on Japan. It is not a professional society or membership organization; its activities are guided by a Board of Trustees.