A growing number of young people in Japan are developing an interest in China, attracted by the country's long history, rich cultural heritage, and rapid technological advances, with many choosing to study Chinese as a gateway to a deeper understanding.
Those aspirations were on display on Saturday at the Japan finals of the 19th "Chinese Bridge" competition for secondary and high school students, where 16 contestants from across the country shared personal stories about learning Chinese and their impressions of China.
Anna Takahashi, who lived in China for three years, recalled feeling anxious and uncertain when she first arrived in a foreign country. But the kindness she received from teachers and strangers in China gradually eased her fears and left a lasting impression.
"That experience made me truly fall in love with China," she said during her speech.
After returning to Japan, Takahashi said she was saddened to hear negative stereotypes about China, including claims that "China is dangerous". She added that she often felt frustrated for being unable to counter such comments effectively.
