Yes they were built in Japan. It was made by Panasonic for Schwinn. It was only made for one year (1973) as it was percieved as a threat to the Schwinn Paramount built touring bikes. It was as good in quality, the Shimano componentry worked better that the Campy (Shifters, derailers etc.) that came on the Paramount at half the price, so it was dropped. The shimano stuff showed up on the Paramount the next year (rebranded as Le Tour.)

I initially started this project with the idea of using a Kogswell Model P frame but they are no longer in procudtion. I talked to Matt at Kogswell for a while and he was very insitent that a Japanese frame of this sort would be very similar to the Model P (His words not mine!) He held the 70's and 80' upper level models by the Japanese makers in very high regard. A number of the Japanese Schwinn's were made by Panasonic and Bridgestone. There is a great link in Classic & Vintage forum for the Schwinn Lightweight Data Book. It gives all perinent info on Schwinn road bikes from 1970 to 1980. You can find a great frame, lugged 4130 chomoly (Like Surly!)steel, handmade, with plenty of clearance for larger tires and fenders for VERY cheap. The data book helps you narrow down what models are better tha others. Steel frames are easily cold set "streched" to accept more modern drivetrains.