The Japanese machines I prefer are Kenmores (obviously
) and visually they're not at all like the typical clone machines that we've all seen with lots of chrome, fins, radio-style dashboard knobs, etc., particularly after the 1950s.
My favorite Japanese 'bling' machines are Whites, w/out question. Their designs are consistently the most creative and beautiful to my eyes. (There are great examples with other badges, but as a whole Whites are my favorites.) And one of my favorite Japanese series of machines is the Singer 223 - 226. A great design.
HOWEVER, I've yet to find a Japanese machine with a more precise stitch than a Singer 201 and with smoother operation. (There are Japanese 15 clones that are as good or better than the Singers upon which they're based.) Pfaffs as a whole are generally better, Adler same.