Japan

For six days, we traveled back and forth between Tokyo, Kamakura, Kyoto, and Gifu on foot, by Shinkansen, and various other modes of transportation. We had great conversations, ate fantastic food, saw spectacular architecture, visited co-working start-ups and recycling initiatives, and immersed ourselves deeply in traditional Japan with its unique craftsmanship.

We got to know a completely different world, even though, or perhaps because, Japan and Germany face similar structural challenges: aging populations, urban/rural divides, and much more. We were particularly impressed by the harmonious and peaceful atmosphere of respect and politeness that pervaded everything. We would like to see more of that here in Germany.