Which Asian country is known for its historical reluctance to embrace outside influence until the mid-19th century?

Japan is recognized for its historical reluctance to embrace outside influence until the mid-19th century, specifically during the Edo period, which lasted from the early 17th century until the mid-19th century. During this time, Japan adopted a policy known as sakoku, or "locked country," which severely restricted foreign influence and trade. The government set strict limits on interactions with outsiders and allowed very few foreign traders in, primarily the Dutch and Chinese, while largely keeping Western powers at bay.

This isolationist policy helped Japan maintain its cultural identity and societal structure, but it also resulted in a lack of technological and industrial advancement compared to other nations. It wasn't until the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry from the United States in 1853 that Japan began to open its ports to international trade, leading to significant transformations within the country. The forced negotiations with foreign powers marked the end of its isolationist policies and initiated a period of modernization and westernization known as the Meiji Restoration.

In contrast, countries like India and China had varying degrees of interaction with the outside world and were involved in trade, cultural exchanges, and colonial influences much earlier, which shaped their historical development differently. Russia, while geographically located in Asia, has its roots in European