ABSTRACT
This chapter surveys Japanese field research on China, from the late nineteenth century to the present day. Field research activities, conducted by Japanese government and private organizations, provide some of the best sources for the study of Chinese rural society and economy, business and business practices, and customary legal practices. The chapter briefly describes the history and scope of major projects, including the compilation and scope of Consular Reports, studies on customary law in Taiwan and the Chinese Northeast, economic studies by the faculty and students of the Tōa Dōbun Shoin, comprehensive surveys undertaken by the Mantetsu Research Bureau, and the well-known kankō chōsa village surveys. Finally, the chapter provides a guide to finding print and online sources.
