Story of 89-Year-Old Cyclist Who Rode 600 Kilometers to See His Son Inspires

Although there is a lot of good the comes from putting foot to pedal on a bicycle, the tale of Mitsuo Tanigami stands out as a heartwarming saga of familial bonds and undying spirit. At an age when most would confine their adventures to the comfort of armchairs and memoirs, 89-year-old Mitsuo embarked on an extraordinary journey that not only defies the conventional understanding of aging but also redefines the essence of determination.

Mitsuo, hailing from the scenic city of Kobe, yearned to reunite with his offspring, a desire that transcends the simplicity of paternal affection. With his son, Naoya, residing in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, and his daughter, Sayuri, also living afar, the conventional visit seemed far from straightforward. Yet, for someone of Mitsuo’s resolute character, distance and age were merely numbers, not barriers.

Rejecting the rapid convenience of the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, Mitsuo opted for a mode of travel as unconventional as it was inspiring—he chose to ride his bicycle the 600 kilometers (approximately 373 miles) to Tokyo. Over the span of nine days, what unfolded was not just a physical journey across Japan’s diverse landscapes but a profound exploration of endurance, resilience, and the unbreakable ties that bind us to our loved ones.

Mitsuo, a nonagenarian with the spirit of an intrepid adventurer, was no ordinary cyclist. Until seven years ago, he ran a photo studio, a testament to his lifelong engagement with creativity and artistry. About a year before his epic voyage, Mitsuo acquired an electric-assist bicycle, perhaps a prelude to the challenge he was about to undertake. Inspired by his son Naoya, who frequently embarked on international travels for work, Mitsuo set his sights on Tokyo, armed with nothing but a paper map, his bicycle, and an indomitable spirit.

Eschewing digital navigation tools for the tactile familiarity of a 1:200,000-scale map, Mitsuo plotted his course with pencil marks, relying on the kindness of strangers for directions whenever the path seemed uncertain. His journey was punctuated by the serene beauty of Lake Biwa, the majestic sight of Mt. Fuji, and the rugged terrain of Hakone’s mountain passes. Despite facing adversities such as heavy rain, strong winds, and numerous falls, Mitsuo’s resolve never wavered. His odyssey was as much a battle against the elements as it was a pilgrimage fueled by love.

Of course, according to an article on Kobe NP News Japan, Mitsuo’s adventure wasn’t easy. He fell approximately 20 times in the rain, he banged his knee, his hearing was wonky many mornings, he got lost and had to ask for directions,

Upon reaching Tokyo on March 25, Mitsuo’s arrival was a moment of triumph and emotion. Naoya, tracking his father’s progress via smartphone, greeted him on the street, a poignant reunion that symbolized the culmination of an incredible journey. Mitsuo’s stay in Tokyo was a celebration of family and the simple joy of cycling, shared with his son in the city’s vibrant locales.

Reflecting on his adventure, Mitsuo’s words resonate with a profound simplicity, “It was a tough experience, but I’m happy that I was able to make my son happy,” he told Kobe NP News in Japan. His journey back to Kobe, however, would be by train or plane, a well-earned respite from the rigors of the road. Yet, in a declaration that speaks volumes of his adventurous spirit, Mitsuo plans to return to Tokyo this summer—to once again ride his bike back home.

Interested in getting back on the bicycle after reading of Tanigami? Check out our article on learning to ride a bike later in life.

Mitsuo Tanigami’s extraordinary journey is a beacon of inspiration for cyclists and non-cyclists alike, a reminder that age is but a number and that the road less traveled often leads to the most memorable destinations. In a world that sometimes moves too fast, Mitsuo’s story is a poignant meditation on the enduring power of love, the unyielding strength of the human spirit, and the timeless allure of the open road.