"Cultural Contrasts: Comparing China and Japan" 
China and Japan are both East Asian countries with rich cultural histories, but they have distinct differences in their cultural practices and traditions. Aspects such as language, religion, social structure, etiquette, and historical influences. It's important to note that both countries have shared elements due to historical interactions. 
Language: 
 Chinese and Japanese are two completely different languages with unique writing systems according to Wang. Chinese uses characters, while Japanese uses a combination of characters (kanji) borrowed from Chinese and two syllabic scripts (hiragana and katakana) .The Chinese writing system is composed of thousands of characters, each with its own meaning and pronunciation .While on the other hand Kanji characters are often borrowed from Chinese but can have different readings and meanings. 
Religion: 
 China has a long history of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, while Japan has a strong influence of Shintoism and Buddhism according to Vogel. Shintoism is unique to Japan and focuses on the worship of kami (spirits or gods). Although there is religion in China its an atheist country and many Han Chinese people do not actually believe in religion. On the other hand half of the population in Japan still practice Shintoism in some way.  
Social hierarchy:  
Japan's hierarchical structure is far more strict than China's more equalitarian approach according to Bonacich. Both countries have traditional hierarchical structures, but the specific customs and expectations differ. In China, respect for elders and authority figures is emphasized, while in Japan, there is a strong emphasis on group harmony and consensus decision-making. 
Cuisine: 
Chinese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Japanese cuisine, on the other hand, is known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation according to Yousaf. Japan is renowned for its sushi and sashimi, while China boasts a diverse array of dishes, including Peking duck and dim sum. 
Art and aesthetics: 
Both countries have a rich tradition of art, but the styles and techniques differ according to Gao. Chinese art often features intricate brushwork and bold colors, while Japanese art tends to be more minimalist and focused on nature. 
Communication style:  
Chinese communication tends to be more direct and assertive, while Japanese communication is often more subtle and indirect according to Heng. In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on non-verbal cues and reading between the lines. Japanese people tend to be reserved and polite, while Chinese people might seem more direct and assertive. 
Historical Influence: 
China has a long and continuous history, with various dynasties shaping its culture according to Matsusaka. Influences from neighboring regions have also played a role. While on the other hand Japan has a unique historical trajectory, with periods of isolation and cultural borrowing from China. The samurai era and the Meiji Restoration are significant historical milestones. 
conclusion:
Overall, while China and Japan share some cultural similarities due to their geographical proximity and historical interactions, they also have distinct cultural practices that reflect their unique histories and values. It's crucial to recognize that both China and Japan are diverse countries with regional variations in culture. Additionally, globalization and modernization have led to the blending of traditional and contemporary elements in both societies. 

Reference 
Wang, X., & Haapio-Kirk, L. (2021). Emotion work via digital visual communication: A comparative study between China and Japan. Global Media and China, 6(3), 325-344. 
Vogel, E. F. (2019). China and Japan: facing history. Harvard University Press. 
Bonacich, E. (2019). A theory of ethnic antagonism: The split labor market. In Social Stratification, Class, Race, and Gender in Sociological Perspective, Second Edition (pp. 555-568). Routledge. 
Yousaf, S., & Xiucheng, F. (2018). Halal culinary and tourism marketing strategies on government websites: A preliminary analysis. Tourism Management, 68, 423-443. 
Gao, J. (2018). Aesthetics and Art: Traditional and Contemporary China in a Comparative Perspective. Springer. 
Heng, T. T. (2018). Different is not deficient: Contradicting stereotypes of Chinese international students in US higher education. Studies in higher education, 43(1), 22-36. 
Matsusaka, Y. T. (2020). The Making of Japanese Manchuria, 1904–1932. Brill.