Much of what President Jiang thought about his Japanese tour was evident from his body language and the symbolism surrounding the visit.
Chinese journalists and diplomats who often accompany the President on overseas trips said he was unusually subdued in Tokyo.
Mr Jiang rarely smiled and often assumed a sombre expression when giving speeches, particularly on the 'lessons of history'.
There was a noticeable lack of warmth between him and his host, Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi. After finishing his speech at Waseda University on Saturday, Mr Jiang nearly forgot to shake hands with Mr Obuchi, who was also on the podium.
'Jiang was much more outgoing, even jovial, when talking with [US President] Bill Clinton in Washington last year and Beijing this year,' a Chinese source said.
Mr Jiang looked solemn when he met members of the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo on Friday.
In contrast, he was in a happy mood during a get-together with members of the Chinese Embassy in Moscow just before embarking on his Japan tour. Then, the President sang songs and even danced with embassy staff.