On November 9th, 2024, the China Cultural Center in Tokyo transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange, hosting the captivating exhibition “Rice Cultivation and Oriental Civilization.” This unique showcase, a collaborative effort between the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, the Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, the People’s Government of Pujiang County, and the Shangshan Cultural Heritage Management Center of Jinhua, celebrated the enduring legacy of rice farming in uniting Chinese and Japanese cultures.
Over 60 esteemed cultural figures from both China and Japan gathered to witness this homage to the humble grain that has played such a pivotal role in shaping civilizations across the Orient. The exhibition, a testament to Zhejiang’s rich agricultural heritage, offered a captivating journey through the historical roots of rice farming in the lower Yangtze River. Through an impressive collection of artifacts, detailed replicas, and vivid visuals, visitors were transported back in time, immersing themselves in the story of rice as the agricultural bedrock and a shared cultural bond between China and Japan.
The exhibition’s impact transcended the physical space, extending its reach online through the launch of “Multifaceted World from a Grain of Rice.” This digital platform allowed global audiences to explore Zhejiang’s significant contribution to rice civilization, a testament to the province’s enduring legacy in agricultural innovation.
Adding depth to the experience, Professor Shinichi Nakamura, Vice President of Kanazawa University and a renowned specialist in Neolithic archaeology, joined Zhejiang’s cultural scholars in a thought-provoking dialogue. They delved into the profound influence of rice agriculture on Chinese history and its transformative impact on the development of early societies. This intellectual exchange provided valuable insights into the intricate relationship between human civilization and agricultural advancements.
The exhibition served as a powerful reminder of the shared heritage that connects China and Japan, highlighting the role of rice cultivation in shaping their cultural landscapes. By bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering dialogue, this showcase aimed to deepen international understanding and appreciation for the shared history that binds these nations.
As a beacon of Zhejiang’s agricultural heritage and a vital element in the world’s agricultural timeline, this exhibition is part of the Zhejiang Archaeology and Chinese Civilization Series. This initiative seeks to promote cultural exchange and foster greater international understanding by showcasing the remarkable achievements of Chinese civilization. By highlighting rice cultivation’s profound impact, Zhejiang’s showcase brought a piece of China’s ancient legacy to the modern world, reinforcing bonds between diverse cultures through shared history.
