Exploring Japan's Packaging Excellence

This business trip to Japan marked a significant highlight of my 2016 – an opportunity to explore this fascinating country for the first time, and all expenses were covered! A heartfelt thanks to Bounty, the company I currently work for, for making this unforgettable journey possible.

It was a 4-day trip, and I was really, really excited to finally breathe and walk in Tokyo, Japan!

My primary agenda during this trip was attending Tokyo Pack, one of Japan's premier international exhibit events, renowned for showcasing cutting-edge technology in packaging. Engaging in the design and innovation of packaging for top-quality products at Bounty, I was eager to immerse myself in Japan's prowess in this field.

Tokyo Pack lived up to its reputation, featuring over 2,600 booths from 700 companies. The exhibition was a mesmerizing display of diverse machines, materials, and technologies. With an estimated 70,000 attendees from around the globe, it was a unique opportunity to witness the forefront of packaging development on an international scale.

Before delving into the exhibition, I took the time to visit the nearest park from my stay. The weather was delightful, notably cooler than back home in Manila. Although I wished the event had coincided with colder days, the experience was nonetheless enriching. The crucial takeaway was not just the technological advancements but the cultural nuances and diversity that Japan offered.

This is Yoyogi Park, a very clean and peaceful park near Shibuya. In the morning, you will see very few people, most of whom are enjoying the sun."

On a free morning , I ventured to Tokyo Big Sight, an expansive venue and indeed a grand sight. Hosting one of the largest conferences I have attended, it left an indelible mark on me. While confidentiality restrictions prevented me from capturing the technologies showcased inside, the experience was nothing short of remarkable. Engaging with innovators and visionaries in the packaging realm, I gained insights into trends that seamlessly merged creativity, innovation, and technology.

As the day wound down, I explored more of Japan's packaging ingenuity by visiting supermarkets and stores. The meticulousness and artistry in their packaging design were awe-inspiring. I also seized the opportunity to visit some of Japan's famous sites, absorbing the unique blend of tradition and modernity.

The trip concluded with a train ride back to the airport, offering reflective moments on the surreal and memorable experiences of my Japanese adventure. From the bustling innovation at Tokyo Pack to the serene parks and iconic sights, Japan proved to be an unforgettable canvas of culture and cutting-edge technology.

In retrospect, this journey was not just about learning the latest in packaging but immersing myself in a vibrant tapestry of Japanese culture and innovation. It was a chapter that not only enriched my professional expertise but left an indelible mark on my personal and cultural exploration. My sincerest gratitude to Bounty for this incredible opportunity. Looking forward to more journeys that blend business insights with global exploration!