The Meiji Restoration transformed and introduced Japan to an industrialised western culture which influenced Japan’s social structure and values. The Meji restoration brought tremendous social change as millions of people were suddenly able to choose their occupation and move without restriction. By providing a new financially secure environment, the government increased it’s investment in new industries and technologies. As Japan citizens began to live in cities that introduced them to abroad influences, creating social situations in which the traditional authority was undermined. Industrialisation neglected traditional values, and emphasised efficiency, independence, individualism and materialism. Because so many Japanese citizens where
