This Handbook explores the relationship between Japan and the European Union (EU).

The book begins by outlining the political, cultural and historical context for the relationship, from the first encounter by Portuguese traders in the mid-16th century to the post-Cold War era highlighting how intellectual and cultural curiosity led to a genuine, mutual appreciation among Japanese and European societies. The contributions also explore the expansive areas of macroeconomics and trade relations between Japan and the EU, including larger developments such as the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) underscoring the significance of the Japanese-European trade relationship. In order to approach the broad topic of international relations between Japan and the EU, explorations of defence and foreign policy, as well as non-defence and security related joint cooperation, such as climate change adaptation and mitigation, are featured.

Examining the multi-faceted ways in which Europe and Japan have aligned on strategic interests resulting in dramatic changes to economic, environmental, energy, and foreign policy, this Handbook will be a valuable resource for students seeking an entry point into Japan-EU relations, as well as graduate students and scholars seeking a more intricate analysis of economics, trade, foreign policy, defence, environmental policy and areas of joint cooperation.