Responding to intensified uncertainty in the security environment in the Asia-Pacific region Japan declares its intention to implement balanced and integrated defense and foreign policy. For this reason Japan is conducting measures to develop its own defense capabilities; it is strengthening military and political cooperation with U.S. and other countries that share basic values and interests with Japan; and it is increasing its activities in international as well as regional organizations and institutes. However Japan is facing challenges that could possibly limit Japan''s role and influence in maintaining regional order. Therefore it is worth to observe main directions of Japan''s policy in the Asia-Pacific rprospects for Japan-Russia cooperation.