Japan

Japan operates as a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with the Emperor as ceremonial head of state. The country's post-WWII constitution established a unitary state with 47 prefectures having limited autonomy. Japanese governance emphasizes consensus-building and long-term planning.

Japan's industrial policy model - coordinated relationships between government ministries and industry associations - shaped East Asian development strategies. The keiretsu system of interlocking corporate relationships and government guidance created distinct competitive dynamics.