Japan’s Meiji reforms (1869–1890) were a comprehensive effort to westernize and modernize its military, economy, and society in response to Western imperial threats. Unlike China, which resisted systemic change and suffered internal decline, Japan successfully integrated Western practices, enhancing its national power. Japan’s victory in the First Sino-Japanese War established its regional dominance and led to strategic alliances. The Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905) was a turning point, where Japan’s surprise attack on Port Arthur and effective military logistics led to a decisive win. This victory not only cemented Japan’s status as a major power but also influenced later strategies, such as the Pearl Harbor attack. The discussion also explores why larger countries like Russia and China lost wars despite their size, emphasizing leadership, logistics, and institutional quality. Finally, the episode touches on grand strategy, highlighting the importance of diplomacy, preventive investments, and learning from global examples.