"The visit is a sign of the friendly ties between the Chinese people and the Japanese people," Lieutenant General Su Shiliang, commander of China's South Sea Fleet, told a press conference after the ceremony.

He expressed gratitude to Japan for providing aid and assistance after the May 12 earthquake and for relief materials shipped to the quake zone.

The visit of "Sazanami" would promote exchanges between the two defense departments, help build mutual trust, and enhance the development of the China-Japan strategic, mutually beneficial relationship, Su said.

"We hope to work together with our Japanese counterparts, ensure the success of each and every defense exchange project through our solid efforts, sow the seeds of friendship, deliver a message of peace, and make due contribution to the friendliness between the two nations for generations to come."

A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer arrived in Zhangjiang, south China's Guangdong Province on Tuesday, starting a five-day visit to China. The destroyer, Sazanami, carrying 240 Japanese officers, is the first Japanese warship to visit China since World War II. (Xinhua Photo)

Major-Gen. Shinichi Tokumaru of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force said the visit would help consolidate the friendly ties between the two countries.

"Japan and China are both Asian powers. Defense exchanges between us will help maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region."

During the ship's stay, officers from both sides will visit each other's warships and hold seminars to exchange experience with disaster relief and other activities. "Sazanami" will also be open to visits for local residents.