The book explores the critical importance of Pan-Asianism in Japanese imperialism. Pan-Asianism was a cultural as well as political ideology that promoted Asian unity and recognition. The focus is on Pan-Asianism as a propeller behind Japan's expansionist policies from the Manchurian Incident until the end of the Pacific War.

Introduction: Pan-Asian Ideology and the Fifteen Years' War Conceptual Roadmap: Tea, China, and Leadership Prelude to the Fifteen Years' War From Internationalism to Pan-Asianism Manchukuo, a Case of Pan-Nationalist Imperialism The China War and Its Pan-Asian Rescue The Ozaki-Sorge Incident: The Spy Ring and Its Pan-Asianist Recourse The War of 'World-Historical Significance' Pan-Asianism in the Co-Prosperity Sphere Conclusion: From Tea to Co-Prosperity