The Welshmen were inspired by full-back Leigh Halfpenny who kicked three penalties and two conversions to keep his side within touching distance and then denied Bath fly-half Josh Matavesi a try at the death.
With coach Brad Mooar leaving and Liam Williams' arrival adding to competition for places, there have been fears that Wales' points machine could look elsewhere for 2020/21.
Leigh Halfpenny insists history can repeat itself and Wales can win the Guinness Six Nations title despite losing to Ireland.
Thomas Francis, Aaron Wainwright, George North and Leigh Halfpenny are fresh injuries to go alongside the myriad casualties that the Welsh have had to contend with in Japan.