Call Java from Python: Py4J as an Alternative to JPype

Calling Java code from Python has several potential solutions. One option, JPype, can be challenging to compile and appears inactive due to a lack of recent releases.

However, an alternative solution is Py4J, a straightforward library that provides a convenient interface for invoking Java methods from Python code.

Py4J offers several advantages:

• Simplicity: Java methods can be called in Python as if they were native Python methods.
• Flexibility: Py4J relies on sockets for communication instead of JNI, ensuring compatibility with Python versions and libraries that don't run well on Jython.
• Custom Protocol: Py4J uses its own protocol to optimize communication and handle memory management.

Here's a sample Py4J code snippet:

from py4j.java_gateway import JavaGateway
gateway = JavaGateway()                        # connect to the JVM
java_object = gateway.jvm.mypackage.MyClass()  # invoke constructor
other_object = java_object.doThat()
other_object.doThis(1,'abc')
gateway.jvm.java.lang.System.out.println('Hello World!') # call a static method

Py4J is a versatile tool that seamlessly integrates Java and Python, making it a compelling option for developers looking to connect both languages.