Yoshikazu Nakauchi, Yoshi to friends, is no stranger to adventure. In 2010, the Sendai native wanted to explore his homeland of Japan and embarked on a 3,600-kilometre walking tour that began on the northern island of Hokkaido and concluded four months later in Okinawa, Japan's southern-most island. He made many friends while on his travels. Many of those people were victims of the massive earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan and ravaged coastal communities. Nakauchi's aunt was among the more than 20,000 people who lost their lives in the aftermath of the March 11, 2011 disaster.
In 2011, Nakauchi's passion for travel and adventure brought the 30-year old to Vancouver. He obtained a working visa and found himself working as a dishwasher at Tojo's Restaurant. While enjoying his time in Vancouver, Nakauchi never forgot about the friends he met back home. Compelled to do something to help, Nakauchi is about to embark on a cross-Canada cycling trip to raise awareness and funds for continuing recovery efforts in Japan.
Nakauchi learned of a Japanese organization that is working to commemorate the disaster in a unique way. Sakura Line 311 seeks to plant sakura (cherry blossom) trees in areas affected by the disaster. The line of trees will demarcate the reach of the deadly tsunami, to serve as a living reminder for future generations and as a memorial to lives lost. The group aims to plant about 17,000 cherry blossom trees.
Nakauchi-armed with a helmet, tent, sleeping bag, phone, bicycle repair kit, stash of dried nuts and dates sundry items in his bike bag-will begin his solo ride this week and return in about six months. Motivated by Terry Fox and with the support of local businesses that include Tojo's, Metasoft Systems Inc., BMO, and Reckless Bike Stores who provided the handmade touring bike, Nakauchi will fly to St. John's, N.L.. to start his 17city tour back to Vancouver planting a symbolic sakura line across our country.
What motivated this trip?
I never forgot about the friends I met on that walking trip, many having lost their homes and livelihoods; many today still living out of temporary shelters. I think about the children lost in the disaster. I wanted to do something.
How did this idea come about?
I confided to my boss chef/ owner Tojo Hidekazu. Tojo and the staff were very supportive and encouraged me. Originally, I planned to walk across Canada. Tojo suggested perhaps given the terrain and approximate 5,200 kilometres, I should cycle. He has become my primary sponsor.
What is your goal?
I want to create a springboard for everyone to take action. I wanted to provide an opportunity for social action in which everyone has fun participating.
What is your goal?
To raise awareness about Japan and to help extend the circle wider to reach as many people as possible.
What will you most look forward to?
Meeting people along the way, spreading the word about the project; and contributing to the continuing recovery work in Japan.
What will you fear most?
Meeting up with Grizzly bears!
How have you prepared?
I have been training for six months. Working with Paul Dragan from Reckless Bikes. He has taught me most importantly how to repair a flat tire.
How much money do you hope to fundraise?
My goal is to raise $50,000 for the Sakura Line project.
How can people help?
Tojo's has created a Yoshi Roll. It's a Pacific salmon and lobster roll representing both coasts. Proceeds from the sale of the $26 roll goes to the campaign. People who make an outright $100 donation at Tojo's receive a complimentary Yoshi roll. People can also donate online at yoshirolls.org Who inspires you?
Terry Fox. I was inspired by his walk and impressed by his determination, commitment, and perseverance.
