I think the Japs are the meanest people on earth. We have really done a good job pacifying them, for now, Their entire society/culture is based on warfare.
Their record for mistreatment of non-Japanese civilians in conquered lands is so nauseating, so beyond imagination as not to be believed.
I have yet to meet a non-Japanese Asian that had any kind words about the Japanese. Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Filipino - they hate them even to this day.
I don't know much about Japanese culture. I do have a girlfriend with a Japanese MIL who would certainly agree with you. (:
I can say I was rather impressed with the way the Japanese people handled the recent earthquake and nuclear disaster.