Final answer:
Japanese feudalism differed from European feudalism mainly in the social status of merchants, who were less regarded in Japan. The samurais were highly respected and occupied a high social rank, contrary to the statement that warriors were among the lowest class.
Step-by-step explanation:
Japanese feudalism was different from European feudalism in several ways, but looking at the options provided, the most correct answer is that in Japan, merchants were not as well regarded (A). In the hierarchy of Tokugawa society, merchants occupied the lowest rung, while samurais occupied the highest.
Despite this, merchants gained financial power but were unable to improve their social standing due to strict societal stratification. Conversely, in European feudalism, merchants could often gain considerable social status through wealth, especially in later periods. As for the power of the emperor (B), the Japanese emperor was largely a figurehead with real power being held by the shogun.
Regarding protection for women (C), both Japanese and European societies had patriarchal elements, making this less distinct as a difference. Lastly, the statement that warriors were part of the lowest class in Japan (D) is incorrect, as samurai were highly respected and held high status within Japanese feudal society.