It seems to me that what we're seeing now is the normalization of Japanese cultural output, rather than the dominance of it. Set against the background of Korea

It seems to me that what we're seeing now is the normalization of Japanese cultural output, rather than the dominance of it. Set against the background of Korean cultural ascendancy mentioned by jpatokal (prevalent moreso in Japan than America it seems), and the widespread derision of Chinese culture, America is more familiar with Japanese tropes, norms, and media, and integrating them into mainstream pop culture. It's a big step forward from the Otaku subculture that is generally associated with anime, and I think that's a good thing; my biggest impression upon visiting Japan was not the overwhelming craziness usually associated with it, but the fact that they're a society that's already encountered its population peak, and (for the past two decades) a corresponding slide into recession and deflation. The US and other first world countries would be wise to look at Japan for both a model to follow, and a series of pitfalls to avoid, because we'll all face the same issue in due time. Culture (pop or otherwise) is an important messenger of the values a society holds dear. Perhaps the most enlightening aspect of Japanese culture is our media's obsession with some of the certain "odd qualities" that it espouses. The morbid fascination we collectively seem to have with the weirder parts of Japanese culture certainly seem to point fingers at weaknesses within our own. Hentai is almost glorified, while the tiny 8 oz beverage cans in almost any vending machine are ignored. While absolutely not a perfect society in a multitude of ways, the Japanese do get a lot of things right. I think the normalization we're seeing is a good step toward learning more valuable lessons, and more importantly, being receptive toward those lessons.