Meaning: The quote "China should bury head to work diligently for 10 years and then raise head to face Japan" is attributed to Yuan Shikai, a Chinese military and political leader who played a significant role in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican period of Chinese history. This quote reflects Yuan Shikai's perspective on the need for China to focus on internal development and strengthening before engaging in confrontations with external powers, particularly Japan.

Yuan Shikai's life and career were marked by his involvement in major political and military events in China during a period of significant transition and turmoil. Born in 1859, Yuan began his career in the military and rose through the ranks to become a prominent general. He played a key role in the suppression of the Boxer Rebellion and later served as the first President of the Republic of China after the collapse of the Qing Dynasty.

During Yuan Shikai's leadership, China faced numerous challenges, including internal divisions, foreign aggression, and the need to modernize and reform its institutions. The quote in question reflects Yuan Shikai's understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics of the time, particularly in relation to China's relationship with Japan.

At the turn of the 20th century, Japan had emerged as a formidable regional power and had already demonstrated its military capabilities through successful wars with China and Russia. The Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895 resulted in China's defeat and the ceding of territories to Japan, marking a significant blow to China's prestige and influence in the region. This historical context is important for understanding Yuan Shikai's perspective on China's position vis-à-vis Japan.

Yuan Shikai's quote emphasizes the importance of prioritizing internal development and national strength before engaging in external conflicts or confrontations. The idea of "burying the head to work diligently" conveys the notion of focusing on internal reforms, economic development, and nation-building without being distracted by external pressures or conflicts. This approach aligns with the broader concept of "self-strengthening" that was advocated by many Chinese reformers and leaders during this period.

By emphasizing the need to "raise head to face Japan" after a period of diligent work, Yuan Shikai underscores the importance of building a strong and capable China that is better positioned to assert itself on the international stage. This approach reflects a strategic and pragmatic understanding of power dynamics and the realities of international relations.

Yuan Shikai's quote also highlights the complexities of China's relationship with Japan at the time. While acknowledging the need to address the challenges posed by Japan, it also conveys a sense of patience and long-term thinking in dealing with external threats and competition. This perspective embodies a strategic vision that goes beyond immediate confrontations and seeks to position China for long-term success and security.

In conclusion, the quote "China should bury head to work diligently for 10 years and then raise head to face Japan" encapsulates Yuan Shikai's strategic approach to addressing China's challenges in the early 20th century. It reflects a nuanced understanding of the need for internal development and national strength as prerequisites for effectively engaging with external powers, particularly Japan. Yuan Shikai's perspective offers valuable insights into the complexities of Chinese strategic thinking and the historical context of China's interactions with its regional neighbors during a period of significant change and upheaval.