Anthropological & archaeological data indicate that adaptation to nature & de-emphasis of the self form the basis of Japanese life & death philosophy. Various forms of suicide (junshi, shinju, and seppuku (harakiri) are described. Significant historical periods are reviewed in terms of the epidemiology of suicide rates & agents. The development of research since WWII is examined, with emphasis on the 1st suicide hotline established in Tokyo in 1970.