05/22/2026
Happy Flightie Friday! Today, our Travel Expert, Siobhan, is sharing her experience in Japan last summer as a guest chef in the Canadian pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka. She was there specifically for the Te Aratini festival, showcasing her Hawaiian and Indigenous roots. This was a celebration bringing Indigenous cultures together from all around the world!
🇯🇵 What were the highlights of your trip?
✨ Exploring the city by foot and zipping around on the Japan rail line.
✨ Stopping by Universal Japan for a rip on the Flying Dinosaur roller coaster and some butterbeer.
✨ Seeing Himeji Castle in all its glory.
✨ Wandering through the neon lights of Dotonbori.
✨ Eating far more takoyaki than I’d like to admit.
Did I mention the magic of stopping by 7/11 for some fried chicken, Pocari Sweat and late-night karaoke bars?! There's too much to list!
🇯🇵 If you were to go back to Japan, what else would you do?
I can’t wait to go back and explore it more intimately. Whether I return for business or pleasure, it’s such a beautiful country that has easily become one of my top three destinations in the world. Next time, I’d love to venture beyond the major cities, explore the small towns in between, and discover more family-run restaurants and hidden local gems. Japan is truly a bucket-list destination, and I want to immerse myself in as much of its food, culture and history as possible.
🇯🇵 Any tips for first-time travellers to this destination?
✨ Slow down and don’t over plan — the best moments come unexpectedly.
✨ Visit Costco and try the bulgogi bake. I promise you, it’s life changing.
✨ Wander beyond the main cities and get lost in smaller neighbourhoods.
✨ For my Pokémon friends, an auto-catcher for Pokémon Go will be a game changer.
✨ Eat at local mom-and-pop spots (some of the best meals won't be obvious).
✨ Comfy shoes are a must as you’ll be walking a lot.
✨ Carry a portable charger. Maps + trains = constant phone use.
✨ Travel light if you’re moving between cities.
✨ Be mindful of local etiquette, especially on transit and in temples.
✨ Don't pass by Don Quijote, my favourite discount store!
Thanks, Siobhan, for sharing your amazing Japan experience. Want to chat with Siobhan about all things Japan and more? Contact Flight Centre Coquitlam Centre at (888) 240–9205.