Japan saw industrialization as a way to prevent itself from being invaded by Western powers. Why?
As an industrial leader, Japan would be able to influence less developed countries and call on them to defend Japan, if necessary.
By modeling its government on those of Great Britain and the United States, Japan could ensure their support.
As a powerful country in its own right, Japan would be able to assert its influence over world events.
By focusing its efforts on military technology, Japan could launch its own attacks against the West.