This episode marks the start of my solo bikepacking trip across Japan — leaving Tokyo on a test ride meant to reach Chiba before noon. What follows sets the tone for everything ahead. I leave Taito City at 3:30 AM with 65 pounds of gear — no sleep, pouring rain, and a route that sends me in circles. Before the ride, I sit with Marco, who shares a story about his grandfather’s escape from communism in Bulgaria — and a family watch passed down as a symbol of legacy. Six hours into the trip, I break down. I speak honestly about leaving Portland, about brands like CineBags, F-Stop Gear, and Montbell Japan — companies that market themselves as supporting real filmmakers and outdoor travelers. This is the beginning of my attempt to bike the Tokaido Road — Japan’s historic route from Tokyo to Kyoto. This episode captures everything I had to carry to even begin. — 📍 Subscribe for the full series: https://www.youtube.com/@HCP_PDX 📸 Instagram for updates: https://instagram.com/HCP_PDX ☕ Support the journey: https://coff.ee/HCPdocproject —