On April 15, 2025, the '2025 Weibo Culture Exchange Night' took place at Yokohama BUNTai, celebrating the contributions of individuals and organizations to cultural exchange between Japan and China. The event, co-sponsored by Weibo, Telecom Music and Entertainment, and Asahi Shimbun, featured notable performances and awarded distinguished figures in the entertainment industry.
Among the stars present was Ayumi Hamasaki, a celebrated Japanese singer who received the prestigious 'Weibo Japan Year-end Best Artist Award.' With over 3.09 million followers on Weibo, Hamasaki has maintained a significant presence on the platform for over a decade. Dressed in a bold outfit featuring a sheer waist, she captivated the audience as she walked the red carpet, greeting fans with smiles and peace signs.
During her acceptance speech, Hamasaki expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you very much for awarding me the Best Artist Award. I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone at my concerts in China this year as part of my Asia tour!" She delivered her message in both Chinese and English, showcasing her commitment to connecting with her audience across cultures. The crowd erupted in applause, reflecting her popularity and the excitement surrounding her upcoming performances.
Hamasaki's award was not the only highlight of the night. Yuko Fukada, a renowned actress, received the 'Entertainment Icon Award' for her contributions to film and television. Fukada expressed her joy, stating, "I am very happy to receive such an honorable award. I hear there are many people in China who support me, and I will continue to work hard to bring smiles to everyone through my acting." Her heartfelt words resonated with attendees, emphasizing the strong cultural ties that bind Japan and China.
The event also recognized other significant contributors to cultural exchange. Notable awards included the 'Best Traditional Performing Arts Award' going to DRUM TAO, the 'Innovative Novelist Award' to Akio Imamura, and the 'Social Contribution Award' to Chizuko Ueno. The recognition of diverse talents underscored the event's mission to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of both nations.
Additionally, the '2025 Weibo Culture Exchange Night' featured performances from various artists, including ATARASHII GAKKO! LEADERS and w-inds., creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcased the best of Japanese entertainment. The ceremony lasted approximately three hours and forty minutes, with a lineup of engaging performances that delighted the audience.
Director Shunji Iwai, who was awarded the 'Visual Poet Award,' reflected on his long-standing relationship with his Chinese audience, saying, "It has been thirty years since I received support from people in China, and I am grateful for that. I hope to continue creating films that resonate with audiences." His comments highlighted the enduring impact of cultural exchange in the arts.
As the evening progressed, Kento Nakajima received the 'Most Excellent Rising Star Award,' expressing his gratitude for the recognition. He stated, "It is a rare opportunity to receive such an award as an individual, and I look forward to creating more music, dramas, and films in the future." His enthusiasm exemplified the spirit of the event, which aimed to inspire and celebrate emerging talents in the industry.
The '2025 Weibo Culture Exchange Night' was streamed simultaneously on various platforms, including Weibo, Niconico Live, and U-NEXT, allowing audiences in both Japan and China to engage with the festivities in real-time. This innovative approach to broadcasting underscored the event's commitment to bridging cultural gaps and fostering connections between the two nations.
Overall, the event was a resounding success, showcasing the remarkable contributions of artists and cultural figures from both Japan and China. As the night came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of appreciation for the power of cultural exchange and the role of entertainment in fostering understanding and friendship between nations.
