The South China Sea--known as the East Sea in Vietnam--plays a geo-strategically important role to international trade that is critical to food and energy security in the Southeast Asia. Thus, maintaining and securing its freedom, security and safety of navigation are mandatory to not only regional countries, but also actors outside the region who enjoy its benefits. However, the region has been witnessing complicated and unpredictable developments for the past several years since China officially declared its sovereignty over most of the South China Sea. A number of powers outside the region such as the U.S., India and Australia have been advancing their engagements in the region to contain China's expansion. Japan sees the South China Sea as being in its national interest and is gradually reshaping its strategy towards this region. Tokyo has been promoting its presence in the South China Sea in recent years through diplomatic, economic and military means. Japan's enhanced engagements play an important role in maintaining peace and security in the region and have their own effects on regional security. This research paper will focus on analyzing and clarifying Japan's efforts towards further involvement in the South China Sea, and its impacts on region. At the same time, the author will make recommendations for Japan to maintain its increased engagements in the South China Sea and prevent possible negative impacts on the region.

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