The objective of this paper is to analyse the ‘sui generis’ identity of Japan in the context of the East Asian Region and to demonstrate how it contributed to shape the country’s role in East Asia’s region-building. Japan’s position in the region has been complex due to its unique identity generated by historical background, geopolitical factors, economic development and relations with its Western allies. This identity facilitated Japan’s objective to build a cohesive regional community through the promotion of ‘open regionalism’ and the country’s active participation in regional and interregional fora including ASEAN. Following the introduction, the article provides an overview of Japan’s multifaceted identity in its diplomacy and how the country has utilised different elements of its identity in varying historical and political circumstances. By looking into official discourse from the vantage point of its identity, it then examines Japan’s cooperation with regional actors, highlighting its active involvement without assuming a leading role. The last section concludes the article, summarizes the findings and provides a short outlook.
