Source: Global Times
Article from a Japanese women's SPA website on September 11, original title: Compared to the China that people in their 40s are familiar with, the views of young people in their 20s are completely different! A Japanese traveler explains why China is regarded as an "unknown country". Daiki Yuki (44), who once worked as a news anchor for Asahi Television and covered news, sports, and variety shows, transitioned to a startup company "Reiwa Travel" after turning 40. She tells us about the new charm of Shanghai, China.
Traveling to Shanghai is becoming a new trend among Japanese youth! In addition to popular destinations like South Korea and Hawaii, Shanghai is gradually gaining popularity among Japanese people in their 20s. For Japanese people in their 40s, Shanghai is an "accessible neighboring city". However, now the views of Japanese youth have changed. Due to the long-term pandemic preventing travel to China, China has entered their minds as a fresh "unknown country". The search volume for "Shanghai travel" on social media has surged. Surveys show that over 40% of respondents in their 20s are interested in traveling to China. Clearly, China has become a completely different "new destination" in the eyes of the younger generation in Japan.
What is the new attraction of China? One reason for its popularity is the ultimate digital experience. Mr. Taisuke Namba, a marketing director, shared his feelings after returning from Shanghai. China's digitalization has developed rapidly, with cashless payments far exceeding those in Japan. From street vendors, high-end department stores, subways, and taxis, everything is done through Alipay or WeChat. In cafes, a model where there is no server, only digital ordering and pickup, has become the norm. The experience of "a single phone managing the entire trip" is hard to describe in words. Even Mr. Namba, who has traveled around the world, admitted that the digital experience in Shanghai was "like another dimension", leaving a deep impression. But as long as you prepare well in advance, you can fully experience the "most cutting-edge China." This unique way of traveling is precisely the charm of Shanghai (and other Chinese cities) and one of the reasons attracting Japanese youth.
The charm of Shanghai also lies in its unique duality of history and future. On one side is a digital society evolving into a futuristic city, while on the other side lies the rich and profound history of China. Along the Huangpu River, Gothic and Baroque-style buildings built in early times stand tall, elegant and solemn, making one feel as if they were in Europe; on the other side of the river, there is a futuristic city like a science fiction movie. This strong contrast between history and the future is a major charm of Shanghai, as well as a testament to China's development. In addition, delicacies such as xiaolongbao are affordable, and the coffee culture is thriving. Various goods and experiences often lead ahead of Japan, and one can also feel a refined atmosphere. In short, the Shanghai of today is a completely different world from what we used to know, offering a unique experience with its most cutting-edge appearance.
I used to work at Japan Television, and back then, topics like "copycat amusement parks" in China often sparked discussions. But today, China is leading in many fields worldwide. I deeply feel that Japan has reached a stage where it needs to learn from and draw lessons from China. I have a feeling that the trend of experiencing the "new China" will continue to grow. (Author: Daiki Yuki, strictly translated)
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7549337670883885622/
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