The Danes Dance Back to Japan: PTPI Stories of Culture, Connection & Return

🇯🇵 The Danes Dance Back to Japan: PTPI Stories of Culture, Connection & Return

We warmly thank Gunild Bogdahn, Vice President of PTPI Denmark, for sharing her reflections from a deeply memorable cultural journey to Japan. Her leadership and spirit of exchange shine through in every detail of this recent travel and homestay experience—reaffirming everything PTPI stands for.

A Journey Across Islands, Cultures, and Friendships

Gunild and her fellow Danish PTPI members spent 16 unforgettable days exploring Japan. The journey began with a warm welcome from the local chapter in Okinawa, where the group visited one of the world’s largest aquariums, gazed at giant manta rays and a 50-year-old tiger shark, and enjoyed a traditional beach BBQ with their Japanese hosts—elegantly dressed in kimonos.

Gunild noted, “I always look forward to meeting the local committee, and every year, there are new members joining.”

In Hiroshima, the group visited the Peace Memorial Museum and crossed over to Miyajima Island, ascending Mt. Misen by gondola for breathtaking views. A local restaurant owner who serves the “best okonomiyaki” recognized Gunild from past visits—proof of lasting relationships built through PTPI.

In Kyoto, visits included the Golden Pavilion, Silver Pavilion, Fushimi Inari Temple, and Nijo Castle, followed by a train ride to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Here, 1,000 deer roam freely near Todai-ji Temple, one of the largest wooden structures in the world—built without nails and home to a colossal Buddha.

Homestay Hospitality & Shared Songs

The Kikugawa homestay was a highlight. Hosted by Chapter President Ruriko Nakajima, members were welcomed into homes and treated to rich cultural experiences, including a tea ceremony at the Shizuoka Tea Museum.

At the welcome party in Kikugawa—attended by over 50 guests—there was food, music, and joy. The Danes sang a Danish children’s song and their national anthem, while the Japanese sang a song also known in Denmark, followed by Sukiyaki, Gunild’s favorite Japanese tune.

The trip wrapped up with a luxurious stay in Hamamatsu at a traditional ryokan, where Michelin-level cuisine brought the journey to a flavorful close.

“Japan is impossible to describe — it must be experienced,” Gunild shared. “So I expect to return in May 2026.”

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From all of us at PTPI, thank you, Gunild, for being a tireless advocate of person-to-person exchange and cultural diplomacy. Your stories and leadership continue to inspire across borders. 🇯🇵🤝🇩🇰

Image below from a previous trip to Japan. Gunild far right.