To Yamagata

As if balancing out the last few amazing days, overnight the heavens opened up and let down an absolute downpour of rain. When we finally crawled out of the tent concerned at how harsh the rain was getting, our gear and bikes were in small ponds and we were also about to be swallowed up. …

Advertisement

To Niigata City, Niigata

After a ‘rest day’ we were on our way to Niigata City to meet some friends via Shiobara Onsen and Inawashiro Lake. There was some beautiful rice paddy fields and picturesque scenery on the way there. We also stopped in at a place called Tobu World Square which is basically a miniature tourist attraction village. …

To Nikko, Tochigi

Waking up slightly dusty after a few too many banana milks the previous night with Naomichi, we set off to the nearest Starbucks to devise a plan for the rainy days ahead. A grande double shot latte and a few cinnamon rolls later, we were prepared for the rough ride ahead to an even rougher …

To Takasaki

Rain was something we expected to happen, but after 5 days of blissful sunshine, this had kinda been put out of our minds. That dream ended yesterday when it started bucketing down and we realised that riding in the rain isn't quite as fun as we thought it would be. Currently holed up in Starbucks, …

Okutama Lake

After a well deserved 11 hours of rest, Ross was first up at the 'campsite' at 6am. Shortly after, a young girl (about 7yrs old), stumbles out of her tent and sees Ross throwing stones at the lake. She tells him only the skillful (上手) people can skim rocks. Ross impressed her so much by …

The Journey Begins

Woke up feeling slightly dusty after a bit too much sake thanks to Pete and Jane Puchner. After a surgical clean of Carl's mansion (small apartment), we were ready to load the bikes and roll out of Tokyo. 'How's this all supposed to fit on my bike?' - Carl. A few rounds of tetris and …