Conservatism has been Japan's dominant post-war ideology, largely established through the "1955 System" under the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has governed the country for much of the period. Historically, it evolved from Meiji era (1868–1912) efforts to preserve tradition amidst modernization, later transforming into a radical militarist and ultranationalist force in the 1930s and 40s that led to World War II.
Modern Japanese conservatives primarily advocate for revising the pacifist Article 9 of the Constitution, a stance championed by leaders like Shinzo Abe, and maintaining a pro-United States foreign policy. Many also call for remilitarization and a stronger stance against certain regional adversaries. However, radical elements within conservatism also express anti-LGBT and anti-immigration views, and controversially engage in the denial of Japanese war crimes, such as the Nanjing and Kantō Massacres. This influential ideology continues to significantly shape Japan's domestic policies and international relations.