The significance of smooth Sino-Japanese relations cannot be overstated, for they not only serve the interests of the world's second- and third-largest economies, but also strengthen peace and stability in the region and beyond. Yet this vital relationship has reached a new low, to the dismay of people in both countries.

According to a joint survey conducted before the 12th Beijing-Tokyo Forum that began in Tokyo on Tuesday, over 78 percent of the Chinese respondents said the two countries have a "poor" relationship, an opinion shared by 71.9 percent of Japanese.

Many factors, including historical issues and the two sides' competing maritime claims in the East China Sea, have forced the relationship into this gloom.