Exploring Japan's Relationships with its Neighbors

When people think of Japan, the first thing that often comes to mind is a country with a rich tradition and culture, but there’s so much more waiting to be discovered. Japan has a long history and has developed strong relationships with its closest neighbors — both historically and today. It’s important to understand these relationships in order to understand Japan's place in the world and its regional impact.

The History Between Japan and its Neighbors

The relationship between Japan and its neighbors has a long history. Beginning in the fifth century, Japan was influenced by its closest neighbors, particularly those in the Korean peninsula, where writing systems and Buddhism were introduced. Over the years, these countries had periods of both alliance and conflict, but the many disputes have since been resolved.

One of the most important relationships for Japan is that of the Four Main Islands; Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan. These countries have had a complex and strained relationship for centuries and continue to maintain close diplomatic and economic ties. Historically, Japan and China had a tributary relationship, wherein Japan would pay tribute to China in exchange for a variety of goods and protection. Japan also had a tributary relationship with Ryūkyū kingdom, an island nation located south of mainland Japan.

Japan’s Relationship with its Neighbors Today

Today, Japan maintains close relationships with its closest neighbors. As members of the United Nations, Japan and its neighbors cooperate in order to ensure global security and maintain peace. Japan is also a major economic power and has significant influence in the region. The countries are also engaged in various cultural exchanges and cooperation projects.

For example, Japan is a member of numerous regional economic organizations, including the Asia-Pacific Economic and Strategic Forum (APEC) and the Greater Mekong Subregion. These organizations are important for fostering economic development and promoting mutual prosperity in the region.
Laura Thonne @ Unsplash

With regards to China, the two countries have recently strengthened diplomatic relations. China and Japan have established joint committees for the creation of bilateral projects, and the countries have signed multiple agreements related to investment, tourism, and other issues.

Similarly, South Korea and Japan remain close allies. In fact, South Korea is one of Japan’s most important trading partners and their relationship is an important part of Japan’s foreign policy. The two countries work together on a number of issues such as economic cooperation, security, and energy.

Finally, Japan also has a strong relationship with Taiwan. As part of the “Japan-Taiwan Relationship Forum”, implement projects to strengthen relations between Japan and Taiwan. 

In Conclusion

Japan has had a long and complex history with its closest neighbors. While the countries have had conflict in the past, today the relationship is stronger than ever and the countries are engaged in numerous cooperative projects in order to ensure mutual security and prosperity. It’s clear that Japan has fostered strong relationships with its closest neighbors, strengthening the ties that have bound the countries together for centuries.
TOMOKO UJI @ Unsplash