The world is changing rapidly and dramatically, so is Japan. The changes we are experiencing now seem to be in the direction of bringing more chaos and instability than order and stability.

I have refrained from commenting on Japanese politics since the comeback of Shinzo Abe in December 2012. But I think it’s time for me to join the efforts to better understand today’s world, including Japan. That’s why I have decided to start Tracking Japan.

After making it clear that views expressed in this blog are strictly my own and do not represent those of any organization, I promise I will try to speak as candidly as possible. It’s my pleasure if I can provide viewpoints somewhat different from the official flattery of the incumbent government, the heroic but empty shouts by the rightists and ultra-conservatives, and the lofty but unrealistic sermons by the leftists and ultra-pacifists.

Finally, your feedback is of course always welcome. Let’s have fun.

May 20, 2016     Kiyoshi  

I have decided to post my views mainly in Japanese. Please understand that the English version will appear only selectively in this blog.

February 14, 2017     Kiyoshi  

＜Brief Bio＞

Worked for the Sumitomo Bank (Apr. 1983 – Aug. 1994)

Visiting Fellow at the Brookings Institution (Sept. 1999 – Jun. 2000)

Special Researcher at the Office of Prime Minister of Japan (October 2009 – December 2012)