Japanese traveler on world tour by foot praises Türkiye’s hospitality
28-year-old Japanese traveler Motoki Sato, who set off from Japan with a "rickshaw" carrying his belongings, completed his journey through Türkiye, the country he enjoyed the most, before crossing into Bulgaria. His Turkish flag bandana caught attention. January 31, 2025. (AA Photo)
Setting out on an extraordinary adventure, Japanese traveler Motoki Sato is making his way to Paris entirely on foot, pulling a cart loaded with essentials. Having begun his trek nearly 11 months ago, Sato has now completed his Türkiye tour and crossed into Bulgaria.
Sato’s ambitious journey started in Japan, taking him through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Iran before he entered Türkiye via Hakkari two and a half months ago. During his time in Türkiye, he visited cities such as Van, Bitlis, Malatya, Kayseri, and Istanbul, before concluding his Türkiye tour in Edirne.
After a night’s stay in the city, he continued his route by crossing the Kapikule Border Gate into Bulgaria. With approximately 2,300 kilometers left to cover, Sato aims to reach Paris in about four months.
Walking towards a historic achievement
Sato told Anadolu Agency that while his journey has been challenging, it has also been an incredible experience.
“I love walking. My goal is to reach Paris entirely on foot. No Japanese traveler has ever completed the Vietnam-to-France route this way before. I want to be the first,” he said.
A memorable stay in Türkiye
Reflecting on his time in Türkiye, Sato expressed deep appreciation for the warmth and hospitality he encountered.
“Turkish people are very respectful and kind, and they are incredibly hospitable,” he said. “In one of the cities I visited, a family welcomed me into their home for a meal. They even prepared chopsticks for me. I was truly moved by this gesture—it was a sign of deep respect.”
Sato left Türkiye with fond memories and now continues his journey through Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany before reaching France.
Why a cart instead of a backpack?
Many have asked Sato why he pulls a cart instead of carrying a backpack. His answer is simple: efficiency.
“If you carry a backpack, it becomes too heavy over long distances. I don’t like that. With my cart, I can carry up to 100 kilograms of supplies, including water, clothes, and other essentials,” he explained.
With determination and a passion for adventure, Sato is pressing forward toward his goal, step by step, on one of the most remarkable walking journeys in modern times.
