Shanghai and Osaka celebrated their 50-year bond as friendship cities, with the 2024 China-Japan Peace and Friendship Concert held at the Shanghai World Expo Museum on Dec 5.

The concert, widely said to be a testament to the power of cultural exchanges through music, showcased a harmonious blend of Chinese and Japanese musical traditions.

Co-hosted by the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Japan-China Friendship Association of Osaka, the event welcomed dignitaries, artists and music enthusiasts from both nations.

Fu Jihong, vice-president of the Shanghai association, emphasized the concert's significance in furthering pragmatic cooperation and friendly city exchanges in the new era.

Tadakazu Konishi, vice-president of Osaka association, expressed gratitude to renowned musician and lyricist Syohei Mozu, for initiating the concert.

He stressed the importance of passing on the legacy of friendship established by their predecessors and of fostering stronger ties between the two cities.

The concert captivated the audience with rousing performances by artists from both countries. Osaka-based singer Atsuko Asada delivered soulful renditions of Syohei Mozu's compositions Pure Love and I'm Still Here After Three Years.

Surprise, an ensemble led by renowned player of the Chinese plucked lute the pipa, Wu Qiang, enthralled the audience with performances of Chinese classics like The Silk Road and Treading on Grass.

The highlight of the evening was the musical collaboration between singer Asada and Surprise. Together, they delivered heartfelt renditions of popular folk songs, including Song of a Kawachi Woman and Chinese favorites like The Moon Represents My Heart and Ocean, My Homeland – earning resounding applause from the audience.

Wu highlighted the unifying power of music, saying: "Music transcends borders, serving as a universal language. It evokes shared emotions and fosters connections, regardless of the genre."

She added: "It is a testament to the power of love." Wu also emphasized the importance of meticulous rehearsals and understanding the nuances of each other's musical styles for achieving a natural synergy on stage.

Asada, reflecting on her first experience collaborating with a Chinese orchestra, said: "We communicated through our eyes and understood each other's hearts. Everyone worked together, supporting and helping each other. This is cultural exchange through music."

Hideyuki Yokoyama, mayor of Osaka, extended a warm invitation to Shanghai residents to attend Expo 2025, which is to be held in Osaka on April 13 to Oct 13 next year.

Sporting mascots of both the upcoming expo and the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, he said: "I hope to carry the energy of the Shanghai Expo back to Osaka. I sincerely hope that the friendship between our two expo cities will last forever."