This is exactly what I meant, and Japan is not special in this regard. In nearly all cases, with a few exceptions, external influences are molded and integrated

This is exactly what I meant, and Japan is not special in this regard. In nearly all cases, with a few exceptions, external influences are molded and integrated into the underlying culture. It's the same story with American influence on Filipino culture, which was significant but still integrated, or "in tune" as you say. Another good example is French influence on Vietnamese culture, which appears more seamless to me than American influence on Japan. It's a few generations older, so it makes sense.