Karlsson had just captured the European Order of Merit when he and Stenson won the 54th version of the event last year, but an eye problem caused him to miss more than four months of this season, and he plummeted down the world rankings.
While his rivals were battling it out in Dubai last week to decide who would replace him as European No1, Karlsson was in Japan showing signs of getting back to his best with second place after a play-off at the Dunlop Phoenix.
"It's great to be back and playing," Karlsson said on Wednesday, the eve of the first round of the $5.5-million China tournament.
"I'm coming in here with a bit more confidence than before. It's great to be back on a course where you've done well before."
Karlsson said the career-threatening retinal problem had cleared up sufficiently to allow him to play, though he still noticed it when he looked through only one eye.
"I hope it's going to keep improving. I will check it regularly and keep an eye on it," he joked.
Karlsson and Stenson, who as world No7 is the highest-ranked player in the 28-team field, are hoping to make Sweden the first country to retain the trophy since Tiger Woods and David Duval won a record 23rd title for the US in 2000.
"It is possible," said Karlsson. "But we'll try to forget about all of the statistics because it's a new tournament starting tomorrow, and that's why we are here, to play."
Stenson said that, with world No8 Sergio Garcia playing for Spain, No10 Rory McIlroy in a united Ireland team, and PGA Championship winner Yang Yong-eun flying the flag for Korea, the competition would be tougher this year.
"It's a stronger field for sure," said the 33-year-old.
"It feels like you could find the winners among 10, 12, 14 teams. Some countries are stronger than before, so it's going to take some great playing to win."
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