Natural resource-scarce Japan has harnessed globalization as a cornerstone of its economic development ever since the end of World War II, bringing prosperity to its people in the process. Today, rising geopolitical tensions, from Russia's invasion of Ukraine to the escalating rivalry between the United States and China, are disrupting globally interconnected supply chains and markets, and ushering in a new era of protectionist policies. As the tides of globalization turn, we examine Japan's struggle to adapt in an increasingly unpredictable world.