A comprehensive introduction to the history of the Japanese language for undergraduate students. Covering the major stages of Japanese from the earliest period to the present, the book explores key themes such as phonology, writing systems, vocabulary, grammar, styles, honorific expressions, and language variation. Clear diagrams, timelines, and historical illustrations support learning and provide a rich understanding of linguistic change over time. Designed as a self-contained textbook, it offers students a thorough and accessible foundation in the history of Japanese.