The Japanese place great importance on the concept of wa, emphasizing harmony, group loyalty, and consensus.  Japan continues to blend the traditional culture with new ideas, creating a uniquely Japanese approach.  

Japan has always been an enigma.  Japan is also one of the most challenging and complex markets in the modern world.  Despite the current economic instability, or perhaps because of it and the significant changes currently taking place, the Japanese market offers a wealth of new opportunities.  

The United States and Japan, the two largest economies in the world, continue to be plagued by misunderstandings and misconceptions.  Sometimes humorously referred to as "the oddest couple," these two countries are at opposite ends of the cultural spectrum.