This case study has challenged and refined the current understanding of the making of Hong Kong creative industries and the globalization of Japanese popular culture in Asia in the post-war era. Under the auspices of three UGC-funded grants and one Sumitomo Research Grant, we have examined Hong Kong-Japan interactions and collaborations in popular culture in the following four areas: (1) anime, comics and games, (2) TV dramas and pop music, (3) movies, and (4) food. Academic output and cultural activities that are related to our impact case have established the Japanese Studies at CUHK as one of the leading research hubs in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Department has adopted a proactive approach in impact enhancement and knowledge transfer.  We do not only make progress in academia, but also attend press interviews, conduct workshops or seminars in bookstores and secondary schools to reach out to the industry and the general public. Some of us have close connection with influencers in the cultural industries of both Hong Kong and Japan, and such affiliates would provide massive fuel for impact in our academic research and social activities.