Biography…

I’m a proud father of a 14-year-old outdoor enthusiast, Haruki-Anthony. From the age of 3, Haruki displayed a passion for physical activity, running 2-3 km at a time—something quite remarkable for his age. When he was diagnosed with ADHD at 5, we chose an unconventional path: instead of relying on medication, I encouraged him to embrace outdoor adventures. Running, swimming, biking, and trail exploration became our antidote. Today, he’s thriving, medication-free, and continues to inspire me every day.

Ter of nature transformed my life. Within a season, I regained my health, and soon, I was competing in mountain bike races like the Sea Otter Classic.

My love for long-distance cycling began with a two-week cycling and camping tour in British Columbia. From there, it grew into a passion for epic journeys. In 1995, I embarked on my first solo tour: a 6,800 km ride from Vancouver to Toronto via San Francisco and New York.

 

2025-02-05

Mt. Tōno-dake (搭 ノ 岳)

Mt. Tonodake (also known as Mount Tō / 搭 ノ 岳) is in the Tanzawa mountain range runs about 40 kilometers east-west through northwestern Kanagawa Prefecture. There are number of mountains in Tanzawa range and two are in the list of “100 Famous Japanese Mountains”. Both can be hiked in a same trail and Mt. Tonodake (Tohno-dake) is the highest peak. From the Okura bus stop (also visitor center with parking lot), it is about 200-300M walk along the road to the trail head. I let the distance fooled me – I was physically and more importantly, mentally was not up to the steep and physically demanding climb waiting for me with less than couple of hundred meters.

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