Japan 2017

The night before departure. Restless with a bundle of nervous energy - half butterflies in the stomach, half a hearty sukiyaki meal from the day before.

The adventure begins with nervous energy and a bundle of challenges. Rain, hail, and 8°C temperatures welcome us to Japan as we complete our first 70 kilometres.

A significant milestone as we cross from Kyushu to Honshu. Taking it easy today, repacking and readjusting after yesterday's exhausting hailstorm adventure.

Our first long stretch! From coastal scenery to treacherous mountain passes. Special sendoffs from Starbucks staff and 7-11 friends fuel our spirits with "ganbatte".

A lesson in humility when Michelle's brakes fail on a mountain slope. A sobering reminder that arrogance has no place in great challenges - only humility and confidence.

A rest day in Hiroshima brings the first glimpse of cherry blossoms. Visits to the Peace Memorial Park and time for equipment maintenance while the sakura chase begins.

The classic battle between adventurer and nature unfolds. Testing both our resolve and our equipment as we push forward from Hiroshima.

Following Japan's famous Route 2 through countryside and coastal areas. Discovering the quieter side of Japan away from the major cities.

Rest day in Okayama exploring the legend of Momotaro the Peach Boy. Immersing ourselves in local folklore and Japanese cultural stories.

Sometimes there is no right or wrong path - only different experiences. Learning to navigate both physical routes and team decision-making.

Riding through areas showcasing Japan's economic success. Observing the contrast between traditional culture and modern prosperity.

Discovering pockets of rebellious heterogeneity within Japan's famously homogeneous society. Finding individual expression in unexpected places.

Rest day in Osaka featuring a memorable encounter with an elderly lady in a traditional dango shop. Simple moments that capture the heart of Japan.

From Osaka to Nara carrying messages of peace. Reflecting on history and the importance of remembrance in preventing future conflicts.

Encountering Nara's famous bowing deer and exploring ancient temples. A magical day where legend meets reality in Japan's ancient capital.

When adventure meets adversity through food poisoning. Learning about team support and resilience when facing unexpected health challenges.

Finding simple appreciation and simple joys on the road to Nagoya. Sometimes the most profound moments come from the smallest observations.

A rest day in Nagoya for updates and reflection. Taking stock of our progress and preparing for the challenges ahead.

When dental floss becomes essential repair equipment. Creative problem-solving on the road from Nagoya to Gamagori.

Discovering that Japan's convenience stores are cultural institutions, not just refuelling stops. A day of unexpected insights from Gamagori to Hamamatsu.

A sobering day when Tresha crashes hard, resulting in our first serious injury. An important lesson about adventure, risk, and the courage to continue living boldly.

A major milestone as we officially hit our 1000km mark! Celebrating this incredible achievement and reflecting on how far we have come.

The second half of our epic journey officially begins. With renewed energy and determination, we tackle the challenges ahead.

Another distance milestone achieved! More than 1200km scooted as we continue our incredible journey through Japan.

A heartwarming encounter with a local family in Fukushima. Discovering the power of human connection and unexpected kindness.

Finding peace and tranquility in Forest Park Adatara. A natural meditation sanctuary that soothes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit.

A wonderful sendoff leads to a lovely ride through spectacular mountain scenery. The beauty of Japan continues to amaze and inspire.

Discovering wonderful people everywhere we go. The warmth and kindness of strangers continues to be the highlight of our journey.

There is something magical about the Japanese countryside. Finding peace and beauty in rural landscapes and simple moments.

A day for updates and reflection on our incredible journey. Taking stock of our progress and the adventures still to come.

Bidding a fond farewell to the wonderful city of Sendai. Grateful for the memories and connections made in this special place.

Spring pollen creates unexpected health challenges, but our determination to continue the adventure remains unshaken. Sometimes the smallest obstacles test us most.

When life throws unexpected challenges our way, we learn to adapt and find strength in resilience. Every curveball teaches us something new.

Discovering the art of going slow and being truly present. Finding beauty in mindful travel and appreciating each moment of the journey.

Beginning the last hard leg of our epic journey. Preparing mentally and physically for the final challenges that lie ahead.

Tackling the steep ascent into the formidable Hakoda Mountain ranges. Our most challenging climbs yet as we push toward the final stretches of our journey.

Experiencing the controlled chaos of Golden Week holiday celebrations. The entire country seems to be on holiday, creating a festive atmosphere everywhere we travel.

The epic finale! Battling extreme 47km/hr headwinds on our last major scooting day - like facing the final boss in a video game before victory!

The triumphant finale! After 41 days and 1,842 kilometres, we have reached Mount Hakodate summit. The moment of victory and profound human connection.

A heartfelt video tribute to all the beautiful souls we met along the way. Thank you for making our adventure so meaningful with your warmth and kindness.