日本是亞太經濟合作構想的創始國，且自始至終在推動亞太地區的經濟合作與整合上扮演重要的角色。基於戰爭的歷史經驗，日本在推動APEC 的方式較為低調，希望以溫和手段、協調的角色來發揮「微妙領導作用」。但是統合以美國為主的「亞太主義」及東協與中共所推動之「東亞主義」並非易事。近年來日本的「魯仲連」角色因受其國內複雜的政商關係所制約而無法有自主性，日本的APEC策略，更因無法配合APEC自由化的進度及其本國經濟成長式微的情勢下，無法發揮應有的效益。

　　　　　For years, Japanese has promoted regional multilateral institution building with a very subtle and behind-the-scenes approach. Japan wants to become a major player in the Asia-Pacific region. However, many domestic and international factors complicated Japan's ability to play a more active role. This paper aims to explore Japan's interests and frustrations in APEC. In general, Japan has contributing the establishment of a region that is consistent with its own basic interests. But, domestic politics and external economic pressure have impeded it progress in APEC.