As the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) celebrates its 10th anniversary, young people worldwide are spotlighting how cultural connections—like those between Chinese and Japanese architectural traditions—are shaping global unity. 🌏 One standout voice is Takaya Inoue, a Japanese student at Tsinghua University, who’s diving deep into the stories behind these design marvels.
A Decade of Global Collaboration
The BRI, known for fostering sustainable international cooperation, has become a launchpad for youth-driven cultural exchanges. Inoue, a former member of Tsinghua’s Student Association of Belt and Road Initiative, shared how studying in Beijing opened his eyes to 'shared roots' in Chinese and Japanese architecture. 'From temple roofs to garden philosophies, there’s a silent dialogue between our histories,' he told CGTN.
Cultural Bridges Through Architecture
Inoue’s journey mirrors Gen Z’s knack for blending tradition with modernity. He highlighted how ancient techniques, like dougong (interlocking wooden brackets) in Chinese buildings and sukiya-zukuri styles in Japanese tea houses, reflect mutual influences. 'These designs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about harmony with nature, something both cultures value deeply,' he added.
With over 150 countries now part of the BRI network, students like Inoue are pushing for more cross-border creative partnerships. 'Imagine joint architecture workshops or VR tours of heritage sites,' he said. 'That’s how we’ll build understanding—one pillar at a time.' 🛠️
