Expan Experience: Traditional and futuristic at the same time, that’s Japan

Japan is a country where tradition and modernity intertwine in a fascinating balance. From the vibrant energy of Tokyo to the historic elegance of Kyoto , each Japanese treasure offers an enriching experience that captivates 'ryokō-sha' , as travelers in the Land of the Rising Sun are known.

Expan Experience presents a new edition with Luany Armijo , Area Supervisor for Europe and distant destinations , who tells us all the details of her most recent trip to Japan , where she toured its main cities , witnessing futuristic buildings , centuries-old temples , Zen gardens and many other 'kankō meisho' or tourist attractions .

A faraway destination that's worth it.

This 18-day journey began with a long flight from Chile to Japan , with a five-hour layover in Dallas . In total, the trip took about two days , taking into account the time difference , which puts Japan one day ahead of South America .

This new tourist circuit , promoted by the operator JTB , seeks to take travelers beyond the conventional destinations of Japan and immerse them in the deepest essence of Japanese culture .

" For Chilean travelers , getting to Japan involves several route options : via the Pacific , with stops in Australia ; via Canada ; via Europe ; or, the most convenient in economic terms, via the United States ."

The trip was divided into two stages . The first, from February 12th to 18th , was dedicated to exploring the more remote parts of Japan , far from the usual tourist routes . Destinations like Matsuyama , Takamatsu , Naoshima, and Okayama offered a different perspective of the country, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the big cities . Inuyama , with its historic castle , was one of the most fascinating stops on the tour.

From February 18 to 25 , the second leg of the trip took the travelers to some of Japan 's most iconic cities . As the journey progressed, the group traveled from small towns to more well-known cities like Kobe , Osaka , and finally, the iconic urban centers of Tokyo and Kyoto .

Japan's Buddhist tradition and its gastronomy

One of the most significant moments of the trip was the immersion in Buddhist tradition . At a temple , the travelers participated in an authentic pilgrimage , wearing traditional clothing and taking part in a worship ceremony .

" Japan is a country with strong spiritual roots , where 98% of the population practices Buddhism , while 2% follow Shintoism . This experience allowed me to connect with the country 's history and philosophy in a unique way ."

The trip also offered an opportunity to discover authentic Japanese cuisine . During the first leg of the journey , the travelers immersed themselves in the country 's culinary traditions by visiting an Udon cooking school . There, they learned the art of preparing these famous Japanese noodles , from kneading to cooking , and then tasted their own creation .

" Traditional flavors were a constant throughout the route : raw fish in all its forms, from fillets to seaweed soups , always accompanied by rice , a fundamental element of the Japanese table . However, in Tokyo and Kyoto the gastronomic offerings are more international . Recommendation : Kobe beef , which we tried in the city of the same name , located between Okayama and Osaka ."

Things we love about Japan

Another fascinating aspect of Japan is its bullet train network, known as Shinkansen , which can reach speeds of just over 300 km/h , making travel between cities quick and comfortable . For example, the route between Tokyo and Kyoto , which covers approximately 500 km , takes only two and a half hours .

One practical detail that makes traveling in Japan even easier is the luggage transfer system . Large suitcases are not allowed on trains , as they can be inconvenient for passengers . To solve this, there is a service where travelers can leave their luggage at the hotel reception , and a specialized team will transport it by bus or truck to their final destination .

Upon arriving in Japan , one of the first things that surprises you is its level of cleanliness . No matter where you go, the streets , sidewalks , and public spaces seem to shine as if they've just been polished .

" The curious thing is that , unlike other destinations known for their orderliness , such as Switzerland , Japan has a peculiar characteristic: you will hardly find any trash cans in the street . You can walk for several blocks without seeing a single container to throw something away ."

Public transport is wonderful

On Japanese public transport , the sense of silence is palpable. Whether on the Tokyo subway or high-speed trains , passengers maintain an astonishing stillness . Everyone is immersed in their books , headphones , or simply their own thoughts , respecting each other's space .

" Throughout our journey , we noticed that while we were conversing in hushed tones , the other passengers watched us with interest , but without appearing uncomfortable. In Japan , noise in public spaces has no place, and this creates an atmosphere of respect and harmony ."

Despite how advanced and complex Japan's transportation system may seem, getting around is surprisingly easy. One of the first surprises was the simplicity of the subway . The clearly marked ticket machines indicate the exact section to pay for. Everything is perfectly signposted and easy to understand.

" The instructions are in both Japanese and English , making the experience of getting around the country even more accessible for tourists . While the stations may seem overwhelming at first, you soon realize that everything has a logical order , and in no time you're moving around the city with the same confidence as a local ."

The magic of Tokyo

The Shibuya district is one of Tokyo's most iconic spots. Here you'll find the famous statue of Hachikō , the dog who faithfully waited for his master for nine years , becoming a symbol of loyalty .

Just a few steps away, the Shibuya crossing impresses with its dynamism : hundreds of people cross simultaneously in different directions , creating an urban choreography worthy of admiration .

Ginza , on the other hand, represents the more elegant and sophisticated side of Tokyo . With its luxury boutiques like Gucci and other high-end brands , it's the ideal place for lovers of fashion and exclusivity . Its streets are also lined with trendy and always bustling cafes , which add a cosmopolitan touch to the experience .

On the other hand, Odaiba stands out for its futuristic architecture and avant-garde atmosphere. This artificial island is home to the Nikko Hotel , as well as attractions such as a replica of the Statue of Liberty and an imposing statue of a giant Gundam robot .

Kyoto, land of the geishas

The contrast with Tokyo is striking upon arriving in Kyoto , a city where history and tradition permeate every corner. The Gion district is the epicenter of geisha culture , where refined entertainers accompany prominent figures at exclusive events . They can be seen on the streets from six in the evening onwards, though their discretion and elegance make their presence almost ethereal .

" It must be clarified that geishas are not companions in the Western sense. They are artists who accompany politicians , artists , and important people at social gatherings . Literally, they accompany. Often, those who hire them end up presenting them as potential daughters-in-law , since they are considered educated and refined women ."

In Kyoto , spirituality permeates every temple and shrine . The Golden Pavilion dazzles with its gold-leaf -covered structure, reflected in the waters of its surrounding pond . The Sagano Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama transports visitors to a dreamlike landscape , with its towering green stalks growing at an astonishing rate .

We also visited the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine , with its more than 1,000 red torii gates that create a hypnotic and mystical corridor .

" A torii is a traditional Japanese gate , usually found at the entrance of a Shinto shrine. Symbolically, it marks the transition from the mundane to the divine or spiritual ."

Hakone, Nara and Hiroshima

While Tokyo and Kyoto are must-see destinations for any traveler, Japan also holds treasures in less frequented places like Naoshima , an island with small museums of great cultural value. Furthermore, the Japanese gardens in traditional villages offer serene beauty and meticulous attention to detail .

" A trip to Hakone took us sailing on Lake Ashi , offering a privileged view of Mount Fuji . In the Owakudani Valley , the fumaroles and geothermal landscapes are reminiscent of the Tatio geysers ."

In Nara , one of the trip's surprises , Nara Park is home to friendly deer that coexist with visitors . They can be fed rice crackers , and their patient and friendly behavior makes them one of the most endearing attractions .

Ultimately, Hiroshima leaves an indelible mark on our memory . The Peace Memorial Park and Museum pays tribute to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing . The Atomic Bomb Dome , the closest building to the epicenter that still stands, is a reminder of the importance of world peace .

" In the museum , there are photographs , objects donated by survivors , and remnants of what was left after the explosion . Since my time as a student in elementary and high school , I always heard about the atomic bomb in Hiroshima , so being there in person was an overwhelming experience ."

Hotels and Ryokan

Japan offers a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from modern, large urban hotels to the centuries-old tradition of ryokan . A tour of various Japanese cities allows you to experience the country's diverse hotel offerings, with options to suit all types of travelers.

" In Tokyo , the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba and the New Otani Garden Tower are examples of the comfort and service that characterize international chain hotels. Both four-star establishments offer spacious and well-equipped rooms , with strategic locations that allow easy access to the city's main attractions ."

In Osaka , the Sheraton Miyako Osaka stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking spacious rooms and quality service . This international chain hotel offers the advantage of larger rooms than is typical in Japan, a feature especially appreciated in a country where living spaces are often limited.

Furthermore, the presence of the Daiwa Roynet chain in several Japanese cities guarantees a standard and reliable accommodation experience.

" We also had the experience of staying in a Ryokan , a type of traditional Japanese inn . They are accommodations or houses in the traditional Japanese style. Instead of conventional beds, you sleep on futons placed on tatami mats , with small spaces and small bathrooms ."

Although these accommodations convey a sense of tranquility and simplicity , they aren't the ideal choice for all travelers. Elderly people or those with joint problems may find sleeping on a futon uncomfortable, as the surface is quite hard . While the idea of staying in a ryokan might seem romantic, it's important to consider its specific characteristics before choosing this option.

Recommendations for planning a trip to Japan

One of the most essential aspects of traveling is having travel insurance . It doesn't matter if your destination is near or far: it's always, always, always necessary . From a simple mishap to a medical emergency , insurance can make the difference between a peaceful experience and a major problem.

When packing your suitcase, there are some essential items. One of them is a power adapter . In countries like Japan, electrical outlets have two prongs instead of three, which can make using electronic devices difficult. Additionally, bringing a portable charger for your phone is crucial, especially when you spend a lot of time exploring without access to power outlets.

Another key point is clothing . Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto require walking long distances, so comfortable shoes are essential. Depending on the time of year, it's also advisable to bring a light jacket or a warm layer.

For those looking to save money and avoid large crowds, February can be an excellent time to visit Japan. The weather is milder and costs are generally lower compared to other times of the year.

" The most popular time or months are March, April and May , the time of year when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom , a natural spectacle worth experiencing ."

Trip planning is also key. To make the most of the experience, it's ideal to start organizing at least three months in advance to be able to visit attractions like the Osaka World Expo 2025, also known as the Osaka Fair, which will be held from April 13 to October 13 on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka, Japan.

" In recent years, Japan has gained enormous popularity among travelers worldwide , so the demand from tour operators has increased significantly, especially since the pandemic . To secure the best accommodation and activity options, it is essential to book in advance ."

The importance of connection times

Traveling to Japan is a fascinating adventure, but long flights and connections can become a challenge if not properly planned. For such extensive journeys, it's ideal to ensure you have at least two and a half hours between layovers . Otherwise, any delays or unforeseen events can jeopardize your entire itinerary.

" For my trip from Tokyo to Dallas , the connection turned out to be more complicated than expected. The plane landed at 4:45, just as I had arrived at Terminal 1 , but the boarding gate was in Terminal 3. The distance between terminals was approximately 15 minutes by bus, which meant that by the time I arrived, the boarding time had already passed ."

But if there is one thing that stands out about the Japanese, especially when dealing with travelers, it is their kindness and gentleness .

" At 10 minutes to 6:00, four Japan Airlines executives came to the rescue, asking for Luany Armijo. It was me, with my suitcase in hand! They helped me and I was able to make my flight to Dallas on time. I only had a 45-minute connection, which isn't enough. For flights this long, I always recommend at least three and a half hours ."

How many days are enough to get to know Japan?

While eight-day, seven-night tour packages are available, this timeframe can be too tight. To fully enjoy your destination and avoid feeling rushed, extending your stay is ideal. Adding two nights at the beginning and two at the end of your trip is recommended, allowing for a total of 13 days and 12 nights . If time and budget permit, 15 days would be an even better option.

In addition, distance must be considered. Traveling from Chile or any other Latin American country to Japan involves many hours of flight . Travel fatigue can negatively impact the experience, especially for older people. Taking the necessary time to acclimatize and rest will make the trip more pleasant and manageable.

" It was a wonderful experience, and yes, I would go back to Japan , but with more time and with my family. I would dedicate more time to Tokyo and Kyoto . Perhaps also to Kobe , which I really liked. At least 15 days . It was an amazing experience, and I would absolutely recommend it ."

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