"Japan-bashing" (in the case of foreigners) or "self-flagellation"

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GoodTaste

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In 21st century Japan, the Nanjing Massacre touches upon national identity and notions of "pride, honor and shame". Yoshida argues that "Nanking crystallizes a much larger conflict over what should constitute the ideal perception of the nation: Japan, as a nation, acknowledges its past and apologizes for its wartime wrongdoings; or ... stands firm against foreign pressures and teaches Japanese youth about the benevolent and courageous martyrs who fought a just war to save Asia from Western aggression."[157] Recognizing the Nanjing Massacre as such can be viewed in some circles in Japan as "Japan-bashing" (in the case of foreigners) or "self-flagellation" (in the case of Japanese).

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanjing_Massacre#cite_ref-167

Does "Japan-bashing" mean "severe criticism against Japan"?
 
It means unfairly criticising Japan. It has the sense that Japan is a victim of the criticism in that it doesn't deserve it, and that the Japanese are being persecuted.
 
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In addition to the valid interpretation provided by jutfrank, it may also imply that Japan is often mistreated in that way.
 
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