Young Voices | Nanking Massacre: A 'lost' historical memory in Japan

By student of Sichuan Agricultural University

Recently, during a live broadcast at NHK International Radio, a Chinese employee deviated from the predetermined news script to deliver a statement that has attracted widespread attention. Firmly speaking in Chinese, he declared: "The Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islands have been an inseparable part of China's territory since ancient times." He then appealed in English: "Don't forget the Nanking Massacre. Don't forget the comfort women. They were sex slaves during wartime. Don't forget Unit 731." These 22 seconds touched upon long-standing historical disputes between China and Japan, particularly the issue of the Nanking Massacre.

For many years, there has been deep-seated controversy within Japan regarding the historical recognition of the Nanking Massacre. This debate extends beyond discussions about the event's authenticity to questioning and distorting historical records. Some individuals doubt the officially reported number of victims, while others openly deny that the massacre occurred at all. Such denial and distortion have, to some extent, created an "information cocoon," hindering the dissemination and acknowledgment of historical truths in Japanese society.

What is more concerning is that this mishandling of history has even infiltrated the educational field. In some Japanese history textbooks, the Nanking Massacre is lightly referred to as the "Nanking Incident," and some textbooks omit this significant historical event entirely. As a result, the younger generation knows little about this brutal chapter of history, leading to misunderstandings and doubts. This situation affects the comprehensive understanding of history among Japanese citizens and has a significant negative impact on Sino-Japanese relations. It represents a disrespect for history and irresponsibility toward future generations.

Additionally, some Japanese media outlets often downplay significant issues and selectively present information when reporting on related historical events. This causes the public to receive a narrow range of information, making it difficult to access diverse historical materials. Even though the international community has provided a wealth of third-party historical materials and evidence—such as reports from Western journalists, testimonies from survivors, and historical photographs—some groups in Japan remain steadfast in their existing beliefs, unwilling to accept new information.

The existence of this information cocoon deepens misunderstandings and estrangement between China and Japan. To address this problem, it is crucial to break down informational barriers and promote exchange and understanding between the two countries on historical issues. Educational institutions and media should assume social responsibility by including significant historical events like the Nanking Massacre in curricula and providing objective, fair historical information. By fully presenting the historical facts in textbooks, the younger generation can understand the true history.

Scholars and experts from both China and Japan should also strengthen cooperation by holding historical seminars and academic exchanges to promote the dissemination of historical truths. Rational discussion and research can eliminate misunderstandings and enhance mutual trust. Civil exchanges are equally important. Through tourism, cultural activities, and interpersonal interactions, mutual understanding and trust can be increased, breaking the constraints of the information cocoon.

At the same time, the internet can be leveraged to overcome the limitations of the information cocoon, promoting widespread dissemination and in-depth understanding of the Nanking Massacre's history worldwide. By utilizing the Internet's high penetration rate, efficient dissemination, and global participation, authoritative multilingual historical information platforms and accounts can be established. This would promote global recognition of the historical truths of the Nanking Massacre, attracting more international users to focus on its historical facts and lessons.

History cannot be changed, but our attitude toward it can determine the future's direction. Confronting historical events like the Nanking Massacre is not only a way to respect the victims but also a prerequisite for genuine reconciliation between China and Japan. Remembering history helps prevent the repetition of tragedies. Both countries should use history as a mirror, break through the limitations of the information cocoon, and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous future.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of DotDotNews.

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