Japan argued that American Christian civilization would destroy the great civilization of East Asia.
There have been elements in Japan who believed this since a quasi-Christian rebellion some time in the 1700's.
I think you should first understand the religious beliefs of the Japanese and their pride in their culture.
Indeed, I don't have as deep an understanding of Japan's mindset as I do of their Chinese neighbors. I do know Japan has a deep, deep sense of national pride though, just like America, Germany, China and Russia all do.
I think you have a religious belief that America's democracy, capitalism, and republicanism should be spread around the world.
That's a bit oh a hyperbole. The West has more than its share of flaws. Decadence is the chief among these flaws. But right now, with the alternative being Sino-Russian authoritarian autocracy and Cult of Personality centered around whoever happens to hold power... the West is the less toxic of these two.
Yeah, As a Christian, I believe that American Christian civilization respects individual happiness and freedom more than the civilizations of Russia, China, and Japan.
However, Japan and Korea are increasingly being dominated by the Chinese economy.
The Japanese and Koreans are beginning to believe that the United States cannot be held responsible for the future economic prosperity and development of Japan and Korea.
So far, Japan and Korea have been able to develop into advanced countries thanks to the economic support of the United States.
However, at present, the United States is no longer able to economically support Japan and South Korea due to excessive military spending.
Overlords of Japan and Korea want to retain their wealth and power by acquiring Chinese slaves, commodities, and markets.
Currently, the ruling classes in Japan and South Korea are imitating China's communist system to gain Chinese wealth.
Because they believe that American capitalism will no longer support their wealth and power.