Cultural Bridges Spun by Kakuei Tanaka and Enlai Zhou: Scenes of Sino-Japanese Art Exchange - 1970s

Cultural Bridges Spun by Kakuei Tanaka and Enlai Zhou: Scenes of Sino-Japanese Art Exchange - 1970s

The Kakuei Tanaka Cabinet period (1972-1974) was a time of great progress in cultural exchange following the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China. In particular, during his visit to China in 1972, Prime Ministers Kakuei Tanaka and Zhou Enlai led a number of cultural initiatives that symbolized the friendly relationship between the two countries. These activities aimed to foster trust through the arts and opened up new horizons in Sino-Japanese relations.

### Background: Normalization of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and China and the Role of Culture
Japan-China relations, which had been severed during the Cold War, underwent a dramatic shift following a visit to China by U.S. President Richard Nixon in 1971. In response to this change in the international situation, the Tanaka Cabinet realized a visit to China in 1972. He and Premier Zhou Enlai issued a joint statement, and the two countries officially established diplomatic relations. Building on this political success, cultural exchange through the arts and academia was promoted.

### Examples of Cultural Exchange
1. **Exhibitions and Performing Arts**.
An exhibition of contemporary Japanese art was held in Beijing, and an exhibition of Chinese calligraphy was held in Tokyo. Chinese Peking Opera troupes and musicians visited Japan, and Noh and Kabuki performances were presented to Chinese audiences in Japan. These events embodied the fusion of traditional culture and contemporary art.

2.**Literature and Film Exchange**.
Literary works by Lu Xun and Bajin were translated into Japanese and gained a large readership in Japanese bookstores. At the same time, works by Kawabata Yasunari and Mishima Yukio were translated into Chinese and spread among Chinese intellectuals. In addition, films about the Chinese Revolution were shown in Japan, providing an opportunity to deepen understanding of history and society.

3.**Academic Cooperation and Protection of Cultural Properties**.
The technical assistance by Japanese experts in the conservation of the wall paintings in the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes is a symbolic example of the protection of cultural properties. In addition, researchers from the two countries jointly investigated historical materials and academic exchanges progressed.

### Historical Background and Issues
Even after the normalization of diplomatic relations, issues of war responsibility and compensation remained in the shadows of bilateral relations. However, under the leadership of Kakuei Tanaka and Zhou Enlai, the building of a relationship of trust was promoted through economic cooperation and cultural exchange. At the same time, the diplomatic balance between maintaining the alliance with the U.S. during the Cold War and deepening relations with China required careful attention.

### Implications for the Modern Era
The foundation for cultural exchange established by Kakuei Tanaka and Zhou Enlai has been carried over into contemporary Japan-China relations. Even in times of heightened political tension, mutual understanding through art and culture serves as an important element that links the hearts and minds of both peoples.