There’s something about hitting the road solo that rewires your brain. You start out chasing miles and end up finding parts of yourself you didn’t know were missing. For Kona rider Noa Taylor, that journey unfolded across Japan, a country he had never been to, where the language, culture, and rhythm of daily life were all brand new.
“It’s an extremely wild experience to be solo in a place unfamiliar to you for such a long time,” Noa says. “This trip was draining, both mentally and physically. But I can’t name a more rewarding experience in my life so far.”
Over 18 days, Noa pedaled 1,080 miles (1,750 km) from Tokyo to Fukuoka. He faced long climbs, quiet nights, and moments of pure exhaustion, but also discovery, resilience, and gratitude.
“The amount I’ve learned about myself and how to take initiative in my own life is unparalleled,” he says. “I learned to truly enjoy being in my own presence, something that’s been hard for me to do.”
From crowded cities to misty mountain passes, every turn of the crank became part of something bigger, a reminder of what happens when you push beyond your comfort zone and just go.
“I’m thankful for everything that happened on this adventure,” Noa says. “And I’m proud of my determination and perseverance throughout it all. I can’t wait to do more of these trips in the future. Thank you, Japan.”
