The Final Miles in Japan
Daily miles 31.71 miles | Total miles 10,092.46
My alarm rang at 6 a.m., and the very first thought that hit me was: this is my last running day in Japan. A comforting thought, honestly — because I could also feel how deeply I needed rest. Last night, I organized the next steps of my journey, and I knew that after today’s run I’d finally have two full rest days in Fukuoka, followed by a travel day on Monday. A very welcome break in the routine.
Stepping outside, I decided one thing:
I want to savor this last day.
The path out of Kitakyushu was full of steep ups and downs. I followed a cycle path packed with schoolchildren on bicycles, and just as many walking — some incredibly young, confidently making their way along well-designed pedestrian paths. Japan’s infrastructure really allows children to move independently, and it’s beautiful to witness.
The sun rose over the hills, but my legs were heavy — today was one of those days where I found myself stopping for every imaginable reason. Tiredness does that. I stopped at a convenience store for food and a drink, and a man outside asked about my run. He was stunned when he learned I’m running around the world alone. I laughed internally — I didn’t feel very impressive today, more like a dallying wanderer trying to keep herself moving forward.
Most of the day, I followed Route 3. But whenever the sidewalk disappeared, the detours began — leading me through forests, steep climbs, unexpected neighborhoods, and even the backside of a factory. I ran through city after city: Okagaki, Munakata, Fukutsu, Koga… each blending into the next.
And then, eventually, the outskirts of Fukuoka appeared — another massive, vibrant city with its incredible web of elevated roads, rail lines, and endless motion.
About 4 miles before the hotel, I stopped one last time at Lawson — my favorite convenience store in Japan. These shops have wonderfully clean public toilets, perfect for runners. It felt like a small, sentimental goodbye.
Just before entering Fukuoka, a man named John approached me and asked what I was doing. With very little shared language, we still managed a warm conversation. A bit later, Andres — from Mexico — stopped beside me at a traffic light. He had started his cycling journey in Tokyo and had also arrived in Fukuoka today, his final destination. And, amazingly, we both discovered we’ll be on the same ferry to Busan on Monday. A special coincidence on a meaningful day.
Finally, I reached the hotel, checked in (8th floor), grabbed groceries, ate, showered, and now I’m here — tired, grateful, and ready for rest.
Two days off, then a travel day.
Perfect.
Exactly what I need.
Thank you for being here with me every day.
See you tomorrow for a little update. Andrea