Looking ahead, what Japan needs is to capitalize on that stability and take risks to address the very real longer-term challenges.

Japan could represent an alternative path for growth and defining economic success.

As the competition for the 92nd annual Oscar foreign film shortlist heats up, the rivalry between Japan and South Korea will no doubt intensify in the world of cinema as well.

As TICAD expands and deepens Japan's interests in Africa, the conference should also highlight what lessons African countries can offer to industrialized countries when it comes to overcoming comparative disadvantages and demonstrating the power of leadership.

Washington's mediation may provide a temporary fix, but not a long-term resolution to the core problems plaguing Japan-South Korea ties.

A lack of curiosity, reluctance to take risks and unwillingness to understand different values are hardly winning traits for anyone to succeed in the fiercely competitive and borderless global market.

The need to quickly improve diplomatic, economic and security relations between Tokyo and Seoul are all too clear.

Japan continues to expect mothers to be the primary caregiver and educator within the family.

Expanding the definition of what it is to be Japanese and encouraging diversity will only further Japan's role as a country fully in tune with the needs of the 21st century.