We have a very similar situation here in the UK, albeit driven by a media-gaslighted populace who voted to leave the biggest free trade area in the world.

I have often thought of Japan and the UK as very similar. We are both shaped by being island nations. We both have a fascinating history that stretches back into the mists of time, shaped by folk tales and mythology. We both revere our monarchies. We both have a shameful imperialist past. And despite the Americanisation of our cultures, the most authentic stories play out on a daily basis in the villages that dot the countryside.

But our governments are not too dissimilar either. Both sell lies about immigration to play to voters fears and yet the import of skilled labour is a necessity for our economies to work.

I hope Japan and the UK both realise that they cannot operate with such tight borders for much longer.