Along with the rise of the Japanese Empire force in modern times, “oriental history” came into being, which covered both national policy research and academic study. Its founders, Shiratori Kurakichi, Naito Konan, etc., published books and submitted research reports with far-reaching influences. In the early days after the defeat of the Second World War, Japanese scholars reflected on their pre-war research, made a clear break from the “imperial history concept” and “national policy history”, and began new explorations. With the rapid economic development, Japan has become one of the top economic powers, new trends have emerged in the exploration of East Asian history, and the East Asian world theory has received universal attention. In the 21st century, the international structure has undergone significant changes. The study of East Asian history in Japan has advanced with the times, new theories have emerged one after another, and many achievements have been produced. Reviewing the trajectory of Japan’s East Asian history research is of great benefit to reflect on the history of oriental diplomacy or the history of East Asian diplomacy. |