Nakano, who acted the part of "Mayumi" in "Kimi yo fundo no kawa o watare" (or "Hunting Down" in Chinese translation>), has become a household name in China since 1979 when the movie premiered and created a widespread sensation there.

Over the past 30 years, the movie, like an unbreakable bond, has been a link between China and Nakano. She has thus become a witness to China's 30 years of reform and opening up.

"China's economy has improved by leaps and bounds and its international clout grows with each passing day since it adopted the policy of reform and opening up 30 years ago," said Nakano, adding that the nation has drawn more and more attention from around the world.

Major Chinese cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai, have become cosmopolitan cities, she said. And the people's way of life has been increasingly internationalized with their clothing more fashionable and decent.

As a friendship ambassador, Nakano has met with most Chinese leaders and is familiar with every detail of China-Japan friendly exchanges. She is one of the few foreign personalities that have witnessed every step forward China has made over the past 30 years.

"Nowadays, young people are hardly aware of the importance of friendly exchanges because they have little idea of the adverse environment for exchanges 30 years ago," said Nakano in response to questions concerning Japan-China exchanges.

"I would like to produce a movie recording Japan-China friendly exchanges and the profound changes in China over the 30 years," she said.

"And young people will be cast in the major roles in the movie in a bid to help them get to know the importance of bilateral exchanges and the 30-year course of China's development," she added.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of both China's reform and opening up and the signing of the Japan-China Peace and Friendship Treaty as well as Japan-China Exchange Year for Youths. The two nations will conduct exchange of visits involving up to 4,000 people.

"Leaders and young people of both nations should understand each other and carry on the fine tradition of friendship from generation to generation," said Nakano.

"I will try my utmost to contribute to that end," she said.