ABSTRACT
The rise of China presents for Japan a myriad of challenges and opportunities that are clouded by uncertainties. As a consequence, Japan has been pursuing a mixed strategy that involves elements of both positive engagement and realistic balancing. While trying to optimize the potential economic benefits of China’s rise and stabilize political relations with its giant neighbor, it is also hedging against the risks and possible threats that China may pose in the future. After considering the theoretical expectations and implications of how Japan is responding and will respond to China’s emergence as a great power, this article examines the evolution of Japan’s policy toward China from 1972 to 2006. It then analyzes the current Japanese strategic debate about China and their policy implications. It concludes by identifying the key factors that will shape this strategic debate in the future and Japan’s policy choices.
