Is it true that the Japanese only knew the world as Japan and China?

Question:

I heard when once China was in control of korea and maybe other countries i was told that the Japanese around 500 years ago knew that the World they knew it as was Japan and China as they did not travel and explore, but i aint so sure.

Is this why the Japanese is unique to other countries and are more independent and the culture is unique (very beautiful in my eyes) and the people are very polite and well mannered?

Also, i'm a English person age of 20 and i am very interested in Japan, their culture and the way they live, I am naturally a very nice person and respect all people who come to England and help them if they need help.

I have done Tourism in college and very interested in learning the Japanese language to one day go and find voluntary work there after i have learned the language enough and also visit the Country to learn the culture.

Would that be fine for you people as your country is very independent.

Answer:

I'm not sure if they really knew only China and Korea (They certainly knew Korea).

But it's certain that there was not major exchange between Japan and western nations before 1543 when they brought guns to Japan.