Japan and Chine were always significantly different countries with significantly different cultures and values throughout History.
There was one behavior that was specifically different in the end of 19th century, though. Although China was still very connected with their old customs and values, Japan was way more open to the West and foreign culture, even assimilating part of it.
The major difference of Japan and China at the end of the 19th century is most likely that Japan have been more open of their culture to western and modern influences, while China have seemed unlikely and still adhered to their customs.
