Yeah, this is a very narrow HN definition of “technology”—I.e. web technology. And even then it overlooks the hardware side, since Japan has among the fastest broadband speeds, Japanese companies are leaders in cellular and fiber communications technology, etc.

In terms of “core industrial competencies”—ability to design and build a nuke, ability to make advanced materials, ability to design and build a competitive microprocessor, ability to put things in space, etc.—Japan is still the second most technologically advanced country in the world.

And weirdly enough making high quality ball bearings.

I heard that the pachinko industry got its head start from the post-war surplus production of ball bearings. Perhaps the quality you mention is now feasible as a result of the scale economics from pachinko ball production.

Yep: NSK, NTN.