Core Viewpoint - The event "Exploring Japanese Flavors: Culinary Tour in Beijing" aims to promote cultural exchange between China and Japan through local cuisine and sake, attracting significant attention [1]. Group 1: Event Details - The culinary festival will officially start on October 27, 2025, and run until November 30, 2025, featuring approximately 28 Japanese restaurants in Beijing, an increase of about 13 from last year's 15 [2]. - Participating restaurants will offer special menus showcasing local dishes and sake from various regions of Japan [2]. - The event will provide high-quality sake at affordable prices in cup servings, encouraging participation [6]. Group 2: Engagement Activities - A stamp collection activity will be held, where customers can earn stamps for purchasing local dishes or sake, with a chance to win attractive prizes [8]. - Prizes include a stay in a luxury suite at the Tokyo New Otani Hotel and dining vouchers at the Orchid Terrace restaurant, along with various sake gifts [8]. Group 3: Culinary Competition - A Japanese cuisine competition featuring Chinese chefs was held concurrently, showcasing the culinary skills of three finalists who received high praise from judges [14]. - The competition was judged by notable figures, including the Japanese Ambassador to China and the president of the Beijing Japanese Culinary Association [14]. - The champion of the competition was Chef Han Shaowen from Toyama Sushi Shiki, with Chef Du Yaqiang from Matsukasa as the runner-up, and Chef Lu Min from Ningenmi taking third place [16][19][21].

Group 1 - The term "Chiponais" refers to Japanese restaurants run by Chinese people, which have become prevalent in France and globally [1][3] - In Washington D.C., out of 30 Japanese restaurants, only 6 are owned by Japanese, with the majority being Chinese-owned [3][5] - Chinese chefs are increasingly recognized for their culinary skills in Japanese cuisine, often incorporating unique flavors and techniques [5][12] Group 2 - Chinese-owned Japanese restaurants are thriving by catering to customer preferences, often offering innovative dishes that blend Chinese and Japanese elements [5][9] - The rise of Chinese chefs in the Japanese culinary scene has led to a shift in traditional Japanese dining experiences, making them more accessible and affordable [26][30] - Japanese chefs are struggling to compete due to their adherence to traditional practices, which can be perceived as overly complex and expensive by international diners [22][26] Group 3 - The Japanese government has attempted to reclaim the narrative around Japanese cuisine by introducing certification standards for restaurants, but only a small fraction of global practitioners have qualified [16][18] - Chinese restaurant owners have adapted their business models to meet market demands, often lowering costs and simplifying menus to attract a broader customer base [30][38] - The collaborative nature of Chinese restaurant owners has allowed them to support each other in business, especially during challenging times like the pandemic [41][43]