This study investigates the dynamic development of three sets of bilateral relations between Japan, the United States and China since the late 1970s. Through an analysis of the policy processes of major policy episodes regarding the three powers in the last quarter century, the study attempts to identify the political, strategic, economic and other factors in the decision-making of the three governments, and the ideology and the interests of the actors involved in the process. This exercise is critically important in enlightening us about the future development of these relationships, which largely will determine the international order in the Asia-Pacific in the 21st century. Data collection will be conducted mainly at Harvard University, which has a superb collection of material on the three countries and a good concentration of academics with experiences in the government. Interviews will also be conducted in Washington D.C., New York, Beijing and Tokyo.