ABSTRACT
Japan's para-diplomacy at the sub-national level, memory wars and identity politics in both nations, played out against the backdrop of an increasingly assertive China, have facilitated closer bilateral ties based on shared values. Japan's security involvement with Taiwan has proceeded apace with the upgrading of defense cooperation with the United States. The US and Japan have prepared for various contingencies, including developing a joint war plan for the Taiwan Strait, indicating that the alliance extends to the protection of Taiwan, emboldening some Taiwanese in asserting their separate identity. Taiwan's Japan-friendly environment makes it an appealing and convenient destination for Japanese tourists who may find South Korea and China less relaxing places for holidays due to ongoing recriminations over history and territorial disputes. The sharp rise of inbound tourism has economic benefits for Japan and also helps develop people-to-people exchanges that underpin close relations.
