Exploration of Approach to Translating Chinese Classics from the Perspective of the Belt and Road Initiative - A case study on the Japanese translation of puns in A Dream of Red Mansions

Promoting Chinese culture to “go global” is an essential part of the “Belt and Road” Initiative. Chinese classics are key carriers of Chinese culture to the outside world, with A Dream of Red Mansions being a prime example. As the epitome of local culture and language, puns are of high value. The intricate and exquisite use of puns in A Dream of Red Mansions seamlessly with characters' identities and personalities while showcasing the profound richness and cultural depth of the Chinese language. Based on Delabastita’s pun translation theory, this paper attempts to explore Ito Sohei’s translation view in order to shed some new insights to translate Chinese classics into Japanese. The research shows that Ito Sohei’s version of A Dream of Red Mansions embodies his translation view of focusing on the adequacy of the translation. It also indicates that the Japanese translation of Chinese classics requires translators to skillfully use annotations, explain complex ideas in simple terms, pay attention to the translation view, promote more excellent culture with Chinese characteristics, Chinese spirit and Chinese wisdom to the world, and strive to create a reliable, admirable and respectable image of China.