The countries around the Sea of Japan are turned nearly upside down in this map of the region, created by the Toyama prefectural government. This alternative view challenges the perception of Japan as an ''isolated island nation,'' separate from the Asian continent.

Japan prepared to open up to the rest of Asia?

Although Japan is actually quite close geographically to its Asian neighbors, its relations with those nations have not been smooth since it opened its doors to the outside world in the 19th century.

Economic globalization is accelerating the flow of products, money and personnel across national borders-a trend that has also begun to prompt Northeast Asia to come closer together and Japan to be more open.

Is Japan prepared to open up to the rest of Asia and the world? Three visiting researchers of The Asahi Shimbun Asia Network (AAN) offer their views.

Open minds bridge the gap between cultures 　 (CHO KYEUNGDAL)
False impressions cloud the view across the Sea of Japan 　 (BAE KEUK IN)
Understanding Japan's shifting role in Asian market 　 (YUKIHITO SATO)