An educational foundation (interdisciplinary) approach is used to examine the development of Japan in order to discover what role, if any, the Japanese higher educational system can play in the internationalization of the country. Some historical, geopolitical, and sociocultural background is provided. It is suggested that Japan can no longer function as a closed society if it intends to keep its global markets. Japan must decide whether it wishes to "open to the world" (internationalize) or fall back on narrow nationalism. An overview of the development of education and pre-war and contemporary higher education is provided. Major problems in Japan's higher education are examined to determine if their system can help resolve Japan's internationalization problem. Of concern is the examination system, instruction, faculty, and academic structure. It is concluded that Japanese higher education cannot be expected to play any part in the Japanese national debate about internationalization. It is necessary to look elsewhere, perhaps to the political and economic structure, for the support of any internationalization program. (SW)