Over the past century, liquid crystals have been a fascinating subject for both academia and industry. While de Gennes' 1974 textbook remains a key reference, new research areas have emerged. This chapter discusses recent developments and future perspectives in liquid crystal physics, with a focus on contributions from Japanese research groups over the last decade. Computer simulations have become increasingly important in liquid crystal studies. Advances in simulation techniques and computer performance have helped bridge the gap between nanoscale molecules and macroscopic structures. Molecular dynamics simulations are expected to contribute significantly to both fundamental and industrial applications. Controlling molecular alignment at the nanoscale is a new challenge, with interfaces and surfaces used to align liquid crystal molecules. Yokoyama and his colleagues proposed a new concept using nanopatterned substrates to create multiple easy axes for multi-stable liquid crystal displays. This has led to intense research on nano-patterning beyond liquid crystals. When surface modulation is on the nanoscale, the director cannot be described by general continuum theory and requires mesoscopic physics. Advances in probe microscopy have spurred further development in this area, stimulating theoretical studies. Non-uniform orientation of liquid crystals can also be achieved through colloidal dispersion. Topological defects in liquid crystal colloidal systems have been studied extensively, with researchers discovering fascinating defect structures and achieving regular alignment of colloidal particles. A Japanese group also made a major breakthrough in the "blue phase" about a decade ago, expanding its temperature range. The hot topics in liquid crystal physics discussed in this chapter share the keyword "nano," highlighting the challenge of bridging nanoscale molecules and their macroscopic properties. The works presented in this chapter aim to provide insights into future directions for liquid crystal physics.Over the past century, liquid crystals have been a fascinating subject for both academia and industry. While de Gennes' 1974 textbook remains a key reference, new research areas have emerged. This chapter discusses recent developments and future perspectives in liquid crystal physics, with a focus on contributions from Japanese research groups over the last decade. Computer simulations have become increasingly important in liquid crystal studies. Advances in simulation techniques and computer performance have helped bridge the gap between nanoscale molecules and macroscopic structures. Molecular dynamics simulations are expected to contribute significantly to both fundamental and industrial applications. Controlling molecular alignment at the nanoscale is a new challenge, with interfaces and surfaces used to align liquid crystal molecules. Yokoyama and his colleagues proposed a new concept using nanopatterned substrates to create multiple easy axes for multi-stable liquid crystal displays. This has led to intense research on nano-patterning beyond liquid crystals. When surface modulation is on the nanoscale, the director cannot be described by general continuum theory and requires mesoscopic physics. Advances in probe microscopy have spurred further development in this area, stimulating theoretical studies. Non-uniform orientation of liquid crystals can also be achieved through colloidal dispersion. Topological defects in liquid crystal colloidal systems have been studied extensively, with researchers discovering fascinating defect structures and achieving regular alignment of colloidal particles. A Japanese group also made a major breakthrough in the "blue phase" about a decade ago, expanding its temperature range. The hot topics in liquid crystal physics discussed in this chapter share the keyword "nano," highlighting the challenge of bridging nanoscale molecules and their macroscopic properties. The works presented in this chapter aim to provide insights into future directions for liquid crystal physics.