/asia
BEIJING, China (AP) -- Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda returned home Sunday after a highly symbolic trip to the birthplace of the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius and "baseball diplomacy" reflected the warming of relations between the countries.
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, third right, on arrival at Beijing's Capital Airport.
Fukuda's four-day trip to China -- his first since becoming prime minister in September -- was the latest sign of improved relations between the Asian giants, who often squabble over territory, resources and wartime history.
The stop at Confucius' birthplace Qufu demonstrates "the common cultural background between the Chinese people and Japanese people," said Japanese foreign ministry spokesman Mitsuo Sakaba.
He then flew back to Japan from Jinan in east Shandong province.
Japan urged China to use its growing influence to make an impact on key global issues such as climate as Fukuda opened a day of summit talks Friday with Chinese leaders.
Fukuda's visit -- his first as prime minister -- followed several friendly meetings between leaders and a Chinese warship's historic port call to Japan.
"In the long history of our relations, there has never been a time when Japan and China has had more influence or responsibilities in Asia and the world," Fukuda said at a joint news conference with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.
"We face a big opportunity going forward," Fukuda said.
Fukuda held talks with Wen, President Hu Jintao and legislative chief Wu Bangguo.
His itinerary included giving a speech at the prestigious Peking University, and a tour the industrial city of Tianjin and Qufu, the birthplace of the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. E-mail to a friend 
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