China’s Rise, China’s Regional Initiatives, and Japan’s Perception of China

This chapter aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of Japan’s evolving perceptions of China’s ascendance by meticulously examining official Japanese government documents and ministerial discourses. Positioned at the forefront of East Asia–Pacific dynamics, China has experienced substantial economic and military growth over the past four decades, resulting in significant shifts in regional powerPower structures. These transformations are meticulously chronicled in authoritative publications from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs MOFA and Ministry of DefenseMinistry of Defense (MOD) MODMinistry of Defense (MOD). The initial segment of this chapter utilizes pertinent statistical data to vividly illustrate China’s economic and military advancements as documented in Japanese official sources. Notably, these documents refrain from explicitly characterizing China as a direct threat to Japan’s national securityNational security; rather, they often portray Chinese behaviors and attitudes as matters of concern or potential threats. Subsequently, the focus shifts to Japan’s perspectives on several critical regional and global initiatives led by China, including but not limited to the BRIBelt and Road Initiative (BRI), NASCNew Asia Security Concept, RCEP, GSIGlobal Security Initiative (GSI), and China’s diplomatic engagements with Southeast Asian nations and ASEANAssociation of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This section emphasizes the scrutiny of Japan’s strategic assessments of these initiatives and their broader implications, drawing extensively from official Japanese government documents and elucidating statements made by governmental figures. Through a meticulous analysis of these authoritative sources, this chapter endeavors to offer scholarly insights into Japan’s nuanced understanding of China’s riseChina’s rise.