From January 13 to 19, 2025, a delegation from the School of Economics and Management at Tsinghua University (Tsinghua SEM) conducted an overseas research trip to Japan. Led by two doctoral mentors, the group comprised 12 undergraduate students who explored Tokyo, Nagoya, and Maebashi to examine the development of advanced productive forces in Japan and their potential implications for China's economic growth. Their itinerary included visits to innovation hubs, government agencies, startups, nursing homes, universities, and technology companies, with a focus on understanding how innovation, digital transformation, and international cooperation can drive industrial upgrading.

Innovation remains a fundamental pillar of modern economic progress. The delegation visited Japanese companies renowned for continuous innovation, including Recruit, BOOSTRY, and Toray Corporation. These companies are at the forefront of advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and financial technology. Recruit has harnessed AI to optimize the job recruitment process, developing an AI-powered career assistant that enhances matchmaking between job seekers and employers. BOOSTRY is pioneering blockchain applications to digitize capital markets, while Toray leads in high-performance materials, particularly in carbon fiber innovation. These cases underscore the critical role of technology in reshaping economic landscapes.

The delegation also explored the intelligent transformation of traditional manufacturing and service industries. At the Toyota Memorial Hall, Wacom, and As-partner, students gained insights into how advanced innovative technologies are integrated into these sectors. Sadao Yamamoto, Chief Technology Officer at Wacom, highlighted the company's focus on practical applications, including remote desktop technology for creative process documentation and sensor technology for counterfeit detection. By addressing real-world applications, Wacom enhances both product functionality and market competitiveness.

Tsinghua SEM delegation visits the Toyota Memorial Hall.

The delegation poses for a group photo at Wacom.

As-partner, a company addressing Japan's aging population challenges, showcased how information technology (IT) and information and communication technology (ICT) can revolutionize elderly care services. The delegation observed AI-driven solutions optimizing caregiving process and improving the quality of life for seniors. This approach not only benefits the elderly people but also serves as a model for digital transformation in other industries.

The delegation visits As-partner nursing home.

Academic exchanges formed another key component of this trip. Students engaged with Professor Tomoo Kikuchiat at Waseda University, who provided a detailed analysis of Japan's prolonged economic stagnation following the collapse of its real estate and stock market bubbles. He emphasized the necessity of structural reforms and increase in R&D investment as strategies for China to maintain competitiveness in key technological areas.

At the STATION Ai innovation incubation center, the delegation participated in a symposium alongside representatives from the Aichi Prefectural Government, Tsinghua University, Nagoya University, and NGK Corporation. The discussion focused on the role of government support in fostering corporate innovation and promoting regional economic growth through industry-university-research collaboration. Hashidume Hidenobu, a section chief from the Aichi Prefectural Government, underscored the importance government's role in facilitating cooperation in technology development and talent cultivation between universities and both local and international companies through corporate visits and technical seminars.

A group photo at STATION Ai

This research trip provided an in-depth exploration of Japan's technological innovation and industrial transformation while fostering meaningful exchanges between young scholars between both countries. The students expressed their commitment to furthering research on intersection of technological innovation, global cooperation, and youth-driven economic development, contributing to sustainable and high-quality economic growth on a global scale.

Source: Undergraduate Student Affairs Office

Editor: Ren Zhongxi