This is because it's functionally a part of the American empire with all the economic benefits that brings. It never would have rose to prominence nor will it m

This is because it's functionally a part of the American empire with all the economic benefits that brings. It never would have rose to prominence nor will it maintain this position without US backing of its economy/security. This is why Abe has been so desperately scrambling to buddy up with Trump. It may have an alternate future underneath the umbrella of a Chinese empire, but would likely being strangled by the compounded corruption.