In 1500, China was one of the most powerful empires in the world due to its advanced technology and resources. However, the Chinese emperors believed themselves superior to outsiders and had little interest in foreign trade or influence. This isolationism would later cause China to fall behind the rapidly expanding European powers. Europeans wanted goods like porcelain, tea, and gunpowder from China, but trade was restricted. China only allowed limited trade in coastal enclaves and did not modernize or open up until later. Japan was also isolated under the Shogun Tokugawa during this time, and the Shogunate viewed foreign influence warily.