Sports - Japan by Bicycle

After living in Japan for over two years Andrew decided to return to America. To end his time in Japan, he cycled the entire country from south to north with his friends Scott and Dylan. At night they camped or stayed with hosts. Their route stretched 3500 km, took 43 days, and wound through many incredible destinations in Japan such as Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, the Japanese Alps, the beautiful NW coast, and the plains of Hokkaido. Only one month before the start date of their trip, Japan was devastated by an 8.9 earthquake which triggered a 30 ft tsunami. The damage was unreal. Bullet trains went missing, nuclear power plants broke down leading to radiation contamination in Fukushima, and the death toll in the first few days alone was estimated at over 10,000. Although the trip was never intended to be a fundraiser, all three of them easily agreed that they should try their best to raise money for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami. Their goal was to raise $10,000 of relief aid. By the time they crossed the finish line, over $13,000 had been given. Completing the trip was one of Andrews major life goals. It taught him the value of big dreams, good friends, and perseverance. The ride will always be one of his best memories.