Flowers burst into blossom in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Since assuming his role in September 2024, Japanese Consul General and Ambassador to Shanghai Masaru Okada has made multiple visits to Nantong to foster economic, trade, and cultural collaborations between Nantong and Japan.

Okada said that, looking across the sea, Japan and Nantong have a long history of friendly exchanges. Nantong is a key manufacturing hub in the Yangtze River Delta, attracting many Japanese companies to invest. This has helped establish a very close economic partnership between the two places.

The ambassador was deeply impressed by the city's beautiful natural environment and unique cultural heritage in the main urban area, as well as in Rugao, Rudong, Qidong, and other locations. As a photography enthusiast, he took many remarkable photos during his visits.

He views Nantong as having four distinct seasons, making it an ideal place for living and working, with numerous beautiful spots for photography.

A temple in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Beautiful blossoms in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Sunrise in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Tourists play on the beach in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]