After previously posting Yuji Ono and Takashi Usami, here's the latest bright young thing from Japanese football, current J-League Young Player of the Year Hiroki Sakai of 2011 champions Kashiwa Reysol:
Physical, attacking right back, his direct dribbling and crossing is strong. He's 21 years old and looks to have the right attributes to make a good career for himself in Europe soon. I'd be surprised if teams aren't already negotiating for him.
Japan produce a lot of good right footed fullbacks, many of whom end up being converted to left backs (Yuto Nagatomo, Michihiro Yasuda) but I think this kid will be pushing Atsuto Uchida for a starting spot in the Japan team before too long.