Ultraman's 60th Anniversary Celebrates China Japan Culture

On July 11, the Chinese National Pavilion Day at Expo 2025 Osaka opens a new chapter in China-Japan trade and cultural exchanges, further promoting synergy between these two nations.

As part of this significant event, Ultraman, the beloved anime series, is set to launch various commemorative activities for its upcoming 60th anniversary in 2026, including a themed exhibition in Shanghai. This highlights the long-standing cultural connections between China and Japan.

In an exclusive interview with CGTN, Masayuki Nagatake, the representative director and president of Tsuburaya Productions, praised the fruitful collaboration between the company and its Chinese partners over the years.

Nagatake emphasized that the Ultraman series promotes essential values such as courage, hope, and kindness, which resonate with audiences across generations.

He noted that the enduring appeal of Ultraman relies on its blend of timeless themes with contemporary issues, ensuring that it remains relevant in today's cultural landscape.

On the tourism front, China has recently announced that it will lift visa requirements for Japanese passport holders and visitors from eight other countries starting November 30, 2024, a development that is expected to invigorate the tourism sector.

This initiative supports China's strategy to boost inbound tourism, facilitate business interactions, and enhance people-to-people exchanges in a rapidly changing global environment.

In addition, China, Japan, and South Korea have jointly declared the years 2025 and 2026 as the China-Japan-South Korea Cultural Exchange Year, aiming to deepen understanding and cooperation among these neighboring nations.