I've found that many people who are interested in Japan are also interested in Asia in general whatever their reasons.
I'm interested to see what other countries in the area people are interested in and why?
OK I'll start
My broad interest in Asia stems from martial arts.
My particular interest in Japan stems from my interest in video games but has grown into an interest in Japanese culture, society and history and I am currently learning the language.
My particular interest in China stems from my interest in Kung fu movies and just being exposed to it (New Zealand has both a large naturalised and immigrant Chinese community like most of the modern world). It's growth and changing role in the world is also of interest to me.
My particular interest in Korea stems from my practicing of TaeKwonDo as a child which grew into an appreciation for Korean culture in general. I'm also interested in the North vs South situation.
Ok now your turn