The first answer is correct. Modern technology didn't make production costs higher. In fact, it made them lower. Technology had mostly positive effects on production.
It became popular because of its texture and luster discovered by the empress)
The country that Japanese fought was China.
The word ''Sino" could be frequently spotted in Historic events around 90s, especially when the other countries were involved. Sino means Chinese, and whenever "sino-(country)" is found, it would means that China was involved.
Therefore the country is China.
Hope it helps!
Ferdinand Magellan<span> was a Portuguese explorer who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe.</span>