Japan is the favourite, with the greater depth in the singles. Morita, Date-Krumm, Fujiwara and Doi are expected to make up the team against an inexperienced slovenia most likely comprised of Hercog, Rampre, Zec-Peskiric and the experienced Srebotnik.
My guess is 4-1 Japan
Yeah, I think it could be very interesting tie. Japanesse players aren't in their top form (Date Krumm or Morita) and somehow it seems Hercog maybe could find some form finally (soild fight against Goerges which made R4 on AO then). I also hope second single player will be Kolar, because I don't see Rampre beating any top 100 player (sadly). And Kolar can be very motivated, she is talented and you never know, maybe she can nake any upset. If there will be tie before doubles match it's gonna be interesting too. Herocg and Klepač both reached R3 on Australian Open in doubles. Still Japan is favorite.