Nov. 28 (Bloomberg) -- A Chinese warship docked in Japan today for the first time in the post-World War II era, in a sign of improving relations between the countries.

Shenzhen, a missile destroyer, docked at Harumi Pier in Tokyo Bay at about 10 a.m. today and was met by Admiral Eiji Yoshikawa, Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force chief of staff.

A planned visit by a Chinese vessel in May 2002 was canceled after then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visited Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo. His annual visit to the shrine soured relations with the Chinese, who say it glorifies Japan's past militarism. Japan has also expressed concern about China's military buildup.

``There has been major progress in Japan-China defense exchanges recently,'' Yoshikawa said at a welcome ceremony. ``The visit by the Chinese vessel Shenzhen symbolizes this.''

During the four-day stay, 345 Chinese naval crew will visit Japanese naval ships, bases and defense academies, and play sports with staff from Japan's military. Some Chinese officers will visit officials in the defense and foreign ministries. The ship will be open to the public during the visit.

``By opening up our vessel to the Japanese public, we'd like show that our visit is for friendship and peace,'' Rear Admiral Xiao Xinnian, who commanded the destroyer, said at a press conference after docking.

A Japanese naval ship will visit China at a later date.

Japan and China agreed on the visit in August during the administration of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The nations' ties improved after Abe's predecessor Koizumi left office in September last year, although a defense white paper published in July expressed concerns about China's military build-up. China says the military spending increases are for peaceful purposes.

To contact the reporter on this story: Sachiko Sakamaki in Tokyo at Ssakamaki1@bloomberg.net.

Last Updated: November 28, 2007 01:09 EST