John’s been taking a lot of hits and heat here for dropping the bike. A little backstory. He busted his a$$ to get a motorcycle license barely in time for this trip and had ZERO practice before we left. Ballz of steel to get on the streets and ride at speed with traffic. It can be intimidating. ALL riders drop bikes- new and experienced. You put your foot down on gravel or a slick surface and buhbye. You are at a stop light and lean over just enough off balance, sayonara. Bikes are heavy and once you’re off-balance even slightly it’s all over. New riders tend to grab the front brake when they are at slow speeds turning. BUH BYE. After a few hard knocks he got the hang of it and was smilin’ for the majority of the trip. #ballzofsteel 😀👍
Isn't it kind of dangerous and irrisponsable to suddenly take a huge trip like this in a foreign country after barely getting your motorcycle license? There's a reason why the fatality rate for motorcycle accidents is ten times higher than automobile accidents.
@@noseboop4354 no its not and thy have both lived there over 15 years. John just had a few problems balancing the bike when it stopped a the first 2 times. its common for new riders or when on a new bike you are not use to. there was no danger other then the bike falling over.
This is part 1 of 2 of this 10 day Hokkaido Adventure! ① I paid about $200 for the repairs ② I did not fall again, thanks for asking 😅 ③ the RV camper trip to East and North Hokkaido will come out end of the week ٩(^‿^)۶ -John
thank you for fixing the glitches @ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub. i think breaking the videos into 2 episodes is a good idea. i don't think i could watch the whole episode
@@bawintermage8351 oh man, I haven’t seen Bosozoku Babes in 20 years when I lived out in the countryside! Not this channel although I should go looking and see if there’s a story - what channel was it? 🤔
@@onlyinjapan A JAV channel no doubt! But, I did see excerpts from a documentary on Female members of Yakuza clans, and their tattoos, that was fascinating. Sub Culture has always fascinated me, in terms of specific language, clothing styles, rites and rituals
@@onlyinjapanI didn’t know you knew Peter (I’m still new to the channel) so when this started I was, hey wait, what? LOL… I watch tons of NHK so his voice is very familiar to me. Like the gentleman said you both bring your talent to the table. 👍🏻
@@RevdUp.Art.Fotografer You can't travel through Tokyo and not hear Peter somewhere. His editing on this was quite impressive so certainly added a lot to this doco. I certainly didn't edit the parts of me falling! hahahaha that needs another's touch.
I’m in the no.1 group for sure 😂 learned my lessons, put my feet down, grip the tank with my thighs not the handles with my hands - so many lessons! Helped so much to have someone knowledgeable with me.
@@onlyinjapan john, i noticed that on those falls on the 2nd and third time you were grabbing the brake lever for the front brakes quickly which locks out the wheel in front but also locks the steering as well for slower maneuvers it is advisable to feather and engage the rear brakes. I also learned this the hard way after falls on my bike making U turns and slow maneuvers
@@onlyinjapan If you buy a bike someday ...Install engine CRASH BARS AND handlebar crash guards from day ONE ...They're expensive but Honda parts aren't free either ....I have no idea why the rental company didn't install those to start with ^^nuts .... And by the way I'm not criticizing your handling by saying this .....A year ago I found my bike on the ground in her parking space because some jerk pushed her with his car mirrors , those things happen all the time ....
Nice trip guys! Peter asked about glass blowing in Otaru. It's a remnant of the days when fisherman used glass floats for their nets. Once they converted to plastic floats, the glass blowing industry here in Otaru needed to evolve to survive. They eventually converted to fine glassware and that's what you see today in town. It's a wonderful place to live and we certainly enjoy our time here in this historic town. 🙏🇯🇵😊
I saw a ton of those old glass floats riding through the old fishing villages - still is use! I really like this background on the industry today. When you know the story behind it, it really adds value to their craft!
Thank you Jason (from Canada) for being with me not just on the campaign to back this but the live streams as it happened! It feels like we’ve come full circle with the release here
Watched it at midnite and couldn’t stop till the very end as it was just AWESOME! You and Peter did an excellent job editing. Loved the music and narration. Shows how much time you guys spent making this road trip enjoyable for us to watch! Peter you’re like a BIG brother to John. I’m glad you guys are BEST friends! Can’t wait to watch part 2! You guys are the BOMB!
Simply fantastic John, I really enjoyed the adventure. The ‘ribbing’ and banter between you and Peter is really funny and shows the great friendship between you two. I loved hearing and seeing information on the Ainu people, it’s great to see that their culture is being shared with others. Thank you for this excellent video. Best wishes to you, Peter and your families
Oh gosh! hahaha I'm fine. I've ridden since and not fallen again so just the first 24 hours were a little ... rough. Worst were my hands. I was squeezing the handles so tight, they went numb! I learned from other riders to use my thighs and squeeze the tank. It helped me enjoy the ride a lot more esp after that first day.
Though long, it wasn't boring. The storytelling and the quality was awesome. I enjoyed it a lot. Really awesome. I thought i was watching a movie. High quality content right here.
Thank you for the compliment. We worked hard on this to keep the pace going and make sure people were leaning in sometimes, always something new and interesting to peak interest because we felt like this while riding and making it. Great it transferred to the movie too.
I can't believe all of that Uni!!! Wow. I can't imagine having that mountain of freshness and meeting the chef. I actually wanted to explore the Northern Region of Hokkaido, thanks for keeping that dream alive.
Short story, I ate 95% of it because Peter couldn’t. It was hard. I felt it in the hotel room in Otaru 😂 the beer I had probably sorted it out down there in Davy’s locked. But wow, big - too big for PvG but definitely worth trying.
@@onlyinjapan Raina Huang, TH-camr and competitive eater,was recently in Japan doing your noodle bowl challenge. You should extend a collaboration invitation, I'd love to see you go head to head. BTW, so glad that you were open to suggestion about the mini tours. Praying the only in Japan Fireworks meetup will be a huge success and open the door for more of the like. You've got a gift John, I'd like to see you fully make use of it. Take care
I don't know if it would make good economic sense, but if you combined these two versions with extra content you left out (and maybe from live-streams) and made a blu-ray, I would certainly buy it. As a backer of this project I'm really glad people are enjoying this. You and Peter did an incredible job on this so thanks to you both!
The cost to make 1000 blurays, anything less makes no financial sense - wouldn't make much sense in 2023. I might burn a few copies - I dunno - but the bleary I made for my 2017 hitchhiking trip was super challenging. The only company that made them in Japan went out of business and I had to order them in the USA. It's always an option and if we do another kickstarter, I will reassess how the best way forward is for everyone. Peter did an amazing job with the post-production as well. Good team work on this.
Johnny Boy, Peter's voice added a whole new dimension to this video, the best one yet, thanks for sharing your journey, I hope you can have more experiences like this and share them with us, your loyal subscribers. Take care of your family.
I loved this! As a former motorcycle rider I can appreciate all the fun and freedom to being out on the open road. Can't wait to see your next motorcycle adventure. 😊
hi John! thank you for another super dedicated new videos of Japan. I haven’t watch the video yet, but I know i will love it nonetheless. I’ll save this one up to watch with hubby later at night.
Great video! You put a ton of effort into this!. I love that you really went out of your comfort zone to try something new. It made for an exciting adventure. I also think it's a shame that 1+ hour videos can be difficult to push and have an audience watch even if it's made well.
Always wanted to do it, so many people said if you’re going to see Hokkaido, best to do it on Motorcycle - and they were right! Sometimes HOW you travel is the trip itself and Hokkaido was made to be ridden by motorcycle!
Ah, Niseko. I was there last month for a business trip. Visited Hirafu, Moiwa, Annupuri, Hanazono, Kutchan, etc. It's my first time and I must say Mt. Yotei looks amazing.
This was a fun trip. I'm glad I got to watch it the first time and see the whole thing in it's entirety. I noticed the audio glitch but didn't pay it any mind. Peter's straight man to John's silliness works so well. They're great together.
Thank you, John, for sharing this experience. I'd love to do something similar one day if I ever had the chance. Until then, please keep on making good videos and sharing your experiences with us - your audience.
Thanks for the feedback. Peter does this for NHK a lot. The reason I don't do it is because a lot of people also study Japanese or are Japanese lol and then they need Japanese subtitles for a Japanese speaker. For this doc though, I think it worked out well in key spots.
Watching this again brings back fantastic memories of a great adventure. Thank you and Peter for making and sharing this epic video! Beautiful cinematography, music, narration.Sugoi! 💞💞💞
This is such a great Episode I love Motorcycles and the imagination of the feeling when you stay in a beautiful hotel and then waking up and knowing Wait..today i can ride the motorcyle again and explore Hokkaido🎉 I definetely love Hokkaido and I really want to do a Motorcyle tour myself Thank you for such a beautiful episode
I have been doing this since 2003 so as a creator, I don’t think this is anything new, someone else’s style at all. This is what John and Peter made, one of thousands of road trip documentaries but the longer it is, the harder for success in TH-cam so you don’t see many anymore. Part 2 coming this week! I’m really so glad you liked it! Wanted ti make every minute watchable and Peter did a great job with the editing and music too - team work.
Road trips are the best way to meet people, hear their stories and integrate them into your memory. The preservation of personal history is as important as national or regional history. There was a project here that recorded old timers stories as part of a national archive, maybe John could do the same. It's often easier to tell a foreigner a story because they can't judge you. I relish hearing that openness.
HAHAHA I started cracking up when you guys started to sing the chips song. Thanks for sharing such a nice ride. Makes me want to learn to ride a motorbike, but people in LA are crazy.
Nice moto content! Living the dream riding in Japan! Everyone drops their bike, it's not an if, but when so no worries. Seeing the roadside fixes on a motorcycle made me laugh as is also part of the motorcycle culture. Looks like you both had an awesome time as it is always awesome to have a friend to ride with to experience places! Peter, nice choice of the Tracer 900, that Yamaha CP3 engines is one of my favorite engines ever!
Peter did a great job with this part. I added a few things and cleaned it up but definitely good team effort here. Was a delight to put together and relive the experiences, even the challenging ones hahaha
The editing is exceptional. I couldn't imaging taking on a monster like this. It must have taken hours/days just to find the music, which was spot on in every scene. There's a show within the show filled with little gems in the narration. Popeye laughing in the toy store made me smile. The food looked amazing. Great presentations. As my son would say, "I'd give it a ten out of ten'!" Another great video.
John needs to practice low speed skills with clutch control friction zone & braking. It looks like he's stabing the front brake & pulling in the clutch too much. Need to stay in the friction zone & drag the rear brake when going slow. Good thing there's very little traffic unlike Tokyo. Fortunately he didn't get hurt & hope you had insurance at the bike rental. Well done vid, Hokaido is beautiful.
I need to put my feet DOWN when I hit the break. That was the problem. I'd do that on turns. Doing it on the course is not so practical and once I foxed that and hugging the tank with my thighs instead of gripping the handles so tight, I could relax and "the training kicked it" Keep working on skills is a huge asset, make good habits and take it serious. More fun that way too.
Thank you John for this documentary video. I have new perspective regarding Hokkaido… in a warm way. Before this video, I had no desire to to go to Hokkaido. I have changed my mind. You and PVG are great together. Real synergy 😊
I’m really glad to hear this. Hokkaido was the last of the 4 main Islands I visited in Japan. I think besides the Snow Festival, there wasn’t any BIG reason to visit but over the last 10 years, it’s really opened up. Cooler in the summer, comfortable - long days of sunshine, food and nature is another level of amazing and of course there is a lot of Japanese culture here to immerse into just like in other places without the crowds. And driving and riding here is perfect!
I have ridden all over Hokkaido going up every summer and there is still so much to see. Unfortunately I havent been 2019 and then I was in the middle of retirement this summer, but next year I am planning to return again.
Thanks - but when you compare it to NHK, somehow the video won't do well on TH-cam hahaha but that smooth even voice certainly gives it that pro feeling like a TV show.
I got to go to Hokkaido earlier this year during the Winter. It's so cool seeing the area in a warmer time of the year, I really wanna go back again during this time period at some point to experience it for myself. Otaru was a fun place to go around and I recognized a few other region names from my travels there.
Hey guys, wanted to say huge thanks from Australia for your motorcycling in Hokkaido vid. Watched it and immediately thought We gotta do that! Rented bike from 819, stayed at Kitukituki and ate (twice) at Minato sushi. Love this island and its people … and now we’ve done central and west, will be back to do north and east. Thanks again! Ps: hope your riding skills have improved! ;)
I liked it all, but my favorite part was the Ainu People. I was thinking how much like Native Americans they were right before Peter said it. I agree with the people that say they were part of a migration of people traveling. They got to Hokkaido and decided to stay while others kept going. The migration brought people all the way into South America, a VERY long time ago.
For us, it was critical to add learning experiences and for Hokkaido, none are more worthwhile that the Ainu people. The museum is somewhat controversial, it doesn’t talk about the modern history, but it does teach about the culture and it’s much improved since the last time I went in 2017 when it was kind of a disaster as you. And see in a live stream I did back them on my GO channel
OMG John! I visited the Noboribetsu Toy Museum last year because of your original video! I showed him your video to tell him that's how I knew of the museum. It was amazing!!! I unfortunately did not know about the huge Oni, I will have to visit again to get a photo. Also, you won't believe, that spot on the Shakotan Peninsula at 29:38 where those tunnels are, I took a bus along there to visit the Shimamui Coast and missed my stop as I thought I was supposed to go further. It started to rain and I had no umbrella for a half an hour walk back to the correct spot, but that coastline in the rain was STUNNING. I'll never forget it. Some little kids came over and thought I was from Russia. I told them I'm from Australia and they looked at me like WHERE?
Its amazing you didnt cut the falling parts. It really reassures that this can happen to anybody and that you are not taken to the police by instant XD
Don’t cut parts that are embarrassing, I think that isn’t helpful. It does happen to new riders and anyone who thinks they’re perfect needs to remember they’re not. I will never forget it with this video 😂
I remember watching the lives you were doing while you were on the trip, and I was really loving it! You and Pete really are a great duo! hahaha.. Thank you for these amazing episodes, John, and Pete! Hope you are great!
Sensational! Interesting seeing both takes of the trip. Was this work? Because it certainly didn't look like it! 😁 Didn't catch all the live streams - Missed that visit to the Toy Museum in Noboribetsu. As something of a toy collector myself, hope you do get another chance to do a full story of that museum in future - That toy collection is downright amazing! That quirky cabin by the roadside was also something of a highlight. 😎
Hi John , this was great. I love it!!! Im curious, did you have to pay much for the "damage" to the bike? Just curious. I loved it all, not just the scenery, but the food, drone shots and even Peters commentary. Cheers, Melb Australia
The added sound track music additions really enhanced the final product and I was glad to see my favorite clips survived. Just went back and checked the "Review" I had originally done and each point was preserved. Here is the Review restated: Informative? Yes, with both historical and cultural narrative from the importance of the Ainu to even the Russian influence on Otaru. Riveting? Yes, with a fast paced storyline that moves as fast as the motorcycles and RV. Dramatic? Yes, with the attack of the Melon Kuma. Suspenseful? Yes, with John's every effort to stay erect on the bike while negotiating turns. Cousine Centric? Yes, with the depiction of meals that could challenge the Food Channel's efforts including sizzling Wagyu steak on a camp stove to succulent fresh cracked Hokkaido crab. Humorous and Witty? Yes, from milking a cow to comical butter making. Moving? Yes, observing from the banter between John and Peter their comradely. Naturalistic? Yes, impressive wild animal encounters from foxes to bears not to mention learning about the role of owls and crows in Ainu Culture.
I was also pleased to see that the "Easter egg" I had discovered in the original Kickstarter video was preserved in the edited TH-cam version. At approximately 24 minutes in one can see a Shitoki necklace hanging from the neck of one of the Ainu dancers. A Shitoki necklace, which has cultural significance, is made from historic trading beads with an added medallion and at least one is in the possession of the Ainu Museum in Hokkaido. (When I had learned that the Kickstarter project was to include a visit to the Ainu Museum, I suggested to Peter and John that they might want to locate and film a Shitoki similar to one that my Uncle had passed on to me after its having been gifted to him by the townspeople of Chitose in appreciation for his kindnesses to them when he headed the U.S. Occupation efforts in Hokkaido.) I was most appreciative of Peter's and John's comments to me in their Kickstarter "Shout Out" when John stated, "We weren't able to go and see your contribution to the Ainu National Museum, but we will one day get in there and see it - we'll definitely be back to the area," and Peter added, "And you'll see in the documentary some of the fantastic footage that we got visiting these Ainu villages." What a surprise to have been able to discover a Shitoki in the "documentary" despite their not having been able to enter the museum itself due to COVID (or as the Japanese term it, "Corona") restrictions.
Same, then one day I pulled the trigger and I was on a Hokkaido highway going 80km/hr to a volcanic hot spring town! Haha - nope, I got dinged about $200 but all repairable and nothing major. Haven’t dropped a bike since 🤘
Another great vid from John. Hats off showing your falls. I remember oh so well having a huge first bike in USA that initially I couldn't upright it by myself when it tipped over that first week. What a delight to other drivers around me when I stopped traffic like that. Great work John
I did this trip on a motorcycle with my buddy 10 years ago. We went to Obihiro. The rain was hard and if felt like needles when you open your face shield. Great video guys
… because his job is narrating TV shows like in NHK 😂 he was the voice of the ANA airline’s safety video and many other attractions around the country.
Hi John and Peter, I was only thinking about you two guys the other day and about some of the walks you have done together around Tokyo, and I am thrilled to pieces to see the two of you together on bikes, I'm over the Moon because I'm a biker myself, congratulations John on getting on the bike and we have all fallen over my friend. I would be honoured to ride with you and Peter. The Cop seemed very concerned and helpful Man you two do a great show together, I hope to see you both on more rides, as I say I'm over the Moon 💯🙏❣️ cheers Paul Girkin from Australia
We all fall down, why edit that out? I learned from other bikers (who’ve had their ups and downs) and that’s how we get better and safer. Learn from each other even the bad, make it a good.
i will say this again, the narration in your videos are top notch! they really got me through a tough time this year! and "rental 819 (ha-i-ku)" cool name!
Discovery channel we deserved! Amazing job, John and Peter, just amazing! Respect from bikers of Armed Forces of Ukraine. Hope we'll have these rider's houses (41:40) in Ukraine after the war. Looking forward to see sequel of this epic show 20 years later - starring Joji von Gomm and Leo Daub. :) Let the crashpads be with you! (for not to brake levers, pedals, and mirrors). ;)
I found 2 mistakes with audio and video glitches, but got a lot of feedback. Majority said it was too long and some said to break it into short 10 min segments … but I think 2 is better. I also want to give the proper attention to the RV and it gets lost with being combined with the motorcycle. It hurts now 😞 really sad about taking it offline - had to time it as a best I could - but it made more sense for the channel and the viewers who hadn’t started watching yet. It wasn’t an easy decision, still dreading it.
Wow! This was really amazing. I am glad I rewatched the live footage from the same trip, before watching the documentary. I truly loved the scenic views and the great quality of the video. I loved all the places you and Peter visited and the food looked scrumptious. This is a great roadmap for potential bikers, that would like to experience the same wild travel experience. Just you and the road. I do prefer your live stream because I get to see you and Peter interact and I think that is where the magic happens. ❤ Two friends on the road, experiencing what Hokkaido has to offer. I do not enjoy the scripted parts, because both you and Peter sound different but it is perfect for narration though. I prefer the casual and entertaining banter between you two. Hilarious! 😂 I cannot wait for Part 2 Next week! Matane, John Daub and PVG. PS: This must have been exhausting and taken a lot to produce. Thanks to everyone who contributed to the Kickstarter project!
Hello John, could you please consider making a video on how to obtain a biker license in Japan? Your series on obtaining a car license has been incredibly helpful. Thank you.
There are several live streams as I was taking the course on ONLY in JAPAN GO 1 year ago 😉 this was the last one, I did 2 others: th-cam.com/users/liveW6dzA6xq6Qc?feature=share channel: @onlyinjapango
Glad to hear it, I streamed before the pandemic to bring people with me on the adventures and the channel was a stop to get info on what was happening during *that* time. And some indoor camping ⛺️ 😂 It’s good that it’s back to normal and I can do something like this again!
![เขามัทรี - เอ็กซ์ ศุภกฤต - จอนนี่มิวสิค [ Official MV ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/AS9ufKuQIVs/mqdefault.jpg)
John’s been taking a lot of hits and heat here for dropping the bike. A little backstory. He busted his a$$ to get a motorcycle license barely in time for this trip and had ZERO practice before we left. Ballz of steel to get on the streets and ride at speed with traffic. It can be intimidating.
ALL riders drop bikes- new and experienced. You put your foot down on gravel or a slick surface and buhbye. You are at a stop light and lean over just enough off balance, sayonara. Bikes are heavy and once you’re off-balance even slightly it’s all over.
New riders tend to grab the front brake when they are at slow speeds turning. BUH BYE.
After a few hard knocks he got the hang of it and was smilin’ for the majority of the trip. #ballzofsteel 😀👍
100% huge jump for a new rider! but he took it like a champ! and you can't learn from your mistakes until you make them!
Isn't it kind of dangerous and irrisponsable to suddenly take a huge trip like this in a foreign country after barely getting your motorcycle license? There's a reason why the fatality rate for motorcycle accidents is ten times higher than automobile accidents.
@@noseboop4354 no its not and thy have both lived there over 15 years. John just had a few problems balancing the bike when it stopped a the first 2 times. its common for new riders or when on a new bike you are not use to. there was no danger other then the bike falling over.
John should have used a scooter instead, as a first timer.
Low speed crash like this is fine, much better that rider that panic and pull the throttle instead and crash head on..
This is part 1 of 2 of this 10 day Hokkaido Adventure! ① I paid about $200 for the repairs ② I did not fall again, thanks for asking 😅 ③ the RV camper trip to East and North Hokkaido will come out end of the week ٩(^‿^)۶ -John
thank you for fixing the glitches @ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub. i think breaking the videos into 2 episodes is a good idea. i don't think i could watch the whole episode
Where are the Buxom Bosozoku Biker Babes? Or is that on another channel?
@@bawintermage8351 oh man, I haven’t seen Bosozoku Babes in 20 years when I lived out in the countryside! Not this channel although I should go looking and see if there’s a story - what channel was it? 🤔
@@onlyinjapan A JAV channel no doubt! But, I did see excerpts from a documentary on Female members of Yakuza clans, and their tattoos, that was fascinating. Sub Culture has always fascinated me, in terms of specific language, clothing styles, rites and rituals
I was quite surprised to see it go on for 80 minutes. You are right that 45 minutes is a very significant episode, this is totally fine.
Peter's narrating coupled with John's documentary acumen makes for a great adventure. This was worth waiting for!
Peter’s a pretty good editor and on-cam talent too! Total package but with voice, there’s no one better. It was a fun video (hard work but fun)!
@@onlyinjapanI didn’t know you knew Peter (I’m still new to the channel) so when this started I was, hey wait, what? LOL…
I watch tons of NHK so his voice is very familiar to me.
Like the gentleman said you both bring your talent to the table. 👍🏻
@@RevdUp.Art.Fotografer You can't travel through Tokyo and not hear Peter somewhere. His editing on this was quite impressive so certainly added a lot to this doco. I certainly didn't edit the parts of me falling! hahahaha that needs another's touch.
It's okay, John. There are only two types of riders: 1) Those that have fallen, and; 2) those that will.
I’m in the no.1 group for sure 😂 learned my lessons, put my feet down, grip the tank with my thighs not the handles with my hands - so many lessons! Helped so much to have someone knowledgeable with me.
@@onlyinjapan You did great, glad you didn't get hurt. We can't lose you, you are a National Treasure, like Nicolas Cage! 😜
Absolutely agree.
Got crashpads and steel cage around motor compartment on my first bike exactly for this purpose.
@@onlyinjapan john, i noticed that on those falls on the 2nd and third time you were grabbing the brake lever for the front brakes quickly which locks out the wheel in front but also locks the steering as well for slower maneuvers it is advisable to feather and engage the rear brakes. I also learned this the hard way after falls on my bike making U turns and slow maneuvers
@@onlyinjapan If you buy a bike someday ...Install engine CRASH BARS AND handlebar crash guards from day ONE ...They're expensive but Honda parts aren't free either ....I have no idea why the rental company didn't install those to start with ^^nuts ....
And by the way I'm not criticizing your handling by saying this .....A year ago I found my bike on the ground in her parking space because some jerk pushed her with his car mirrors , those things happen all the time ....
Nice trip guys! Peter asked about glass blowing in Otaru. It's a remnant of the days when fisherman used glass floats for their nets. Once they converted to plastic floats, the glass blowing industry here in Otaru needed to evolve to survive. They eventually converted to fine glassware and that's what you see today in town. It's a wonderful place to live and we certainly enjoy our time here in this historic town. 🙏🇯🇵😊
I saw a ton of those old glass floats riding through the old fishing villages - still is use! I really like this background on the industry today. When you know the story behind it, it really adds value to their craft!
Happy to have been a backer of this epic adventure! "ONI" in Japan! 👹🗾🏍👍
Thank you Jason (from Canada) for being with me not just on the campaign to back this but the live streams as it happened! It feels like we’ve come full circle with the release here
I like it! 😂
Watched it at midnite and couldn’t stop till the very end as it was just AWESOME! You and Peter did an excellent job editing. Loved the music and narration. Shows how much time you guys spent making this road trip enjoyable for us to watch! Peter you’re like a BIG brother to John. I’m glad you guys are BEST friends!
Can’t wait to watch part 2!
You guys are the BOMB!
i’m so happy for you and you’re channel! Thank you John for showing me around japan and always bringing amazing positivity.
Simply fantastic John, I really enjoyed the adventure. The ‘ribbing’ and banter between you and Peter is really funny and shows the great friendship between you two. I loved hearing and seeing information on the Ainu people, it’s great to see that their culture is being shared with others. Thank you for this excellent video. Best wishes to you, Peter and your families
I'm glad the video didn't end with an "In memorial..." so I take it you're alright as far as falling goes :) Awesome fun watch as always!
Oh gosh! hahaha I'm fine. I've ridden since and not fallen again so just the first 24 hours were a little ... rough. Worst were my hands. I was squeezing the handles so tight, they went numb! I learned from other riders to use my thighs and squeeze the tank. It helped me enjoy the ride a lot more esp after that first day.
Though long, it wasn't boring. The storytelling and the quality was awesome. I enjoyed it a lot. Really awesome. I thought i was watching a movie. High quality content right here.
Thank you for the compliment. We worked hard on this to keep the pace going and make sure people were leaning in sometimes, always something new and interesting to peak interest because we felt like this while riding and making it. Great it transferred to the movie too.
Excellent and exciting episode! Thank you so much John san and Peter san!
I love your videos. I wish I could express how grateful I am for them, they always make my anxiety feel better.
I can't believe all of that Uni!!! Wow. I can't imagine having that mountain of freshness and meeting the chef. I actually wanted to explore the Northern Region of Hokkaido, thanks for keeping that dream alive.
Short story, I ate 95% of it because Peter couldn’t. It was hard. I felt it in the hotel room in Otaru 😂 the beer I had probably sorted it out down there in Davy’s locked. But wow, big - too big for PvG but definitely worth trying.
@@onlyinjapan Raina Huang, TH-camr and competitive eater,was recently in Japan doing your noodle bowl challenge. You should extend a collaboration invitation, I'd love to see you go head to head. BTW, so glad that you were open to suggestion about the mini tours. Praying the only in Japan Fireworks meetup will be a huge success and open the door for more of the like. You've got a gift John, I'd like to see you fully make use of it. Take care
I don't know if it would make good economic sense, but if you combined these two versions with extra content you left out (and maybe from live-streams) and made a blu-ray, I would certainly buy it. As a backer of this project I'm really glad people are enjoying this. You and Peter did an incredible job on this so thanks to you both!
The cost to make 1000 blurays, anything less makes no financial sense - wouldn't make much sense in 2023. I might burn a few copies - I dunno - but the bleary I made for my 2017 hitchhiking trip was super challenging. The only company that made them in Japan went out of business and I had to order them in the USA. It's always an option and if we do another kickstarter, I will reassess how the best way forward is for everyone. Peter did an amazing job with the post-production as well. Good team work on this.
Glad that it sounds like you weren’t hurt and the repairs weren’t too expensive. Great video
I will never never never get tired of a video with John and Peter and you could throw in Jennifer too❤️👍
Johnny Boy, Peter's voice added a whole new dimension to this video, the best one yet, thanks for sharing your journey, I hope you can have more experiences like this and share them with us, your loyal subscribers. Take care of your family.
I loved this! As a former motorcycle rider I can appreciate all the fun and freedom to being out on the open road. Can't wait to see your next motorcycle adventure. 😊
Thanks Michael! Let's RIDE!
hi John! thank you for another super dedicated new videos of Japan. I haven’t watch the video yet, but I know i will love it nonetheless. I’ll save this one up to watch with hubby later at night.
Great video! You put a ton of effort into this!. I love that you really went out of your comfort zone to try something new. It made for an exciting adventure. I also think it's a shame that 1+ hour videos can be difficult to push and have an audience watch even if it's made well.
Always wanted to do it, so many people said if you’re going to see Hokkaido, best to do it on Motorcycle - and they were right! Sometimes HOW you travel is the trip itself and Hokkaido was made to be ridden by motorcycle!
Wow fantastic looked like a great time you guys had nice meals and great scenery!!!!! 🏍️🏍️🛣️ 🏔️ 🌲🌳
and GREAT MEMORIES!!!! And funny ones too!!!! 😊👍🏻
What a great episode! I can’t wait to see part 2.
John and Peter watching fireworks is so kawai!
Ah, Niseko. I was there last month for a business trip. Visited Hirafu, Moiwa, Annupuri, Hanazono, Kutchan, etc. It's my first time and I must say Mt. Yotei looks amazing.
Thank you AGAIN for taking us to the Japanese north.
This was a fun trip. I'm glad I got to watch it the first time and see the whole thing in it's entirety. I noticed the audio glitch but didn't pay it any mind. Peter's straight man to John's silliness works so well. They're great together.
Thank you, John, for sharing this experience. I'd love to do something similar one day if I ever had the chance. Until then, please keep on making good videos and sharing your experiences with us - your audience.
Wow, how neat, thanks for sharing John and Peter !
You’re welcome ^_^
The pairing of John and Peter is so good.
John is out there livin' the dream! Thanks for sharing it with us hikikomori.
Thank you so much for adding English dubbing instead of making us read subtitles! Would be so great to see that in more videos ^^
Thanks for the feedback. Peter does this for NHK a lot. The reason I don't do it is because a lot of people also study Japanese or are Japanese lol and then they need Japanese subtitles for a Japanese speaker. For this doc though, I think it worked out well in key spots.
🎉 This is such a nice 40min long trip!! Thank you John & Peter!
Watching this again brings back fantastic memories of a great adventure. Thank you and Peter for making and sharing this epic video! Beautiful cinematography, music, narration.Sugoi! 💞💞💞
This was so much fun to watch.
This is such a great Episode
I love Motorcycles and the imagination of the feeling when you stay in a beautiful hotel and then waking up and knowing Wait..today i can ride the motorcyle again and explore Hokkaido🎉
I definetely love Hokkaido and
I really want to do a Motorcyle tour myself
Thank you for such a beautiful episode
woaw, the cop is VERY Friendly...
Hey john loving these Top Gear x abroad in Japan style videos. Please make more special videos like this.
I have been doing this since 2003 so as a creator, I don’t think this is anything new, someone else’s style at all. This is what John and Peter made, one of thousands of road trip documentaries but the longer it is, the harder for success in TH-cam so you don’t see many anymore. Part 2 coming this week! I’m really so glad you liked it! Wanted ti make every minute watchable and Peter did a great job with the editing and music too - team work.
Road trips are the best way to meet people, hear their stories and integrate them into your memory. The preservation of personal history is as important as national or regional history. There was a project here that recorded old timers stories as part of a national archive, maybe John could do the same. It's often easier to tell a foreigner a story because they can't judge you. I relish hearing that openness.
HAHAHA I started cracking up when you guys started to sing the chips song. Thanks for sharing such a nice ride. Makes me want to learn to ride a motorbike, but people in LA are crazy.
What a lovely experience watching you guys ride around Japan. Such a beautiful place to ride around taking in the sights and breeze!
Love it! Looking forward to my trip to Hokkaido this autumn
Nice moto content! Living the dream riding in Japan! Everyone drops their bike, it's not an if, but when so no worries. Seeing the roadside fixes on a motorcycle made me laugh as is also part of the motorcycle culture. Looks like you both had an awesome time as it is always awesome to have a friend to ride with to experience places! Peter, nice choice of the Tracer 900, that Yamaha CP3 engines is one of my favorite engines ever!
What an experience in Hokkaido. PVG always brings a good intro
Excellent editing john and PVG
Peter did a great job with this part. I added a few things and cleaned it up but definitely good team effort here. Was a delight to put together and relive the experiences, even the challenging ones hahaha
The editing is exceptional. I couldn't imaging taking on a monster like this. It must have taken hours/days just to find the music, which was spot on in every scene.
There's a show within the show filled with little gems in the narration. Popeye laughing in the toy store made me smile. The food looked amazing. Great presentations. As my son would say, "I'd give it a ten out of ten'!"
Another great video.
John needs to practice low speed skills with clutch control friction zone & braking. It looks like he's stabing the front brake & pulling in the clutch too much. Need to stay in the friction zone & drag the rear brake when going slow. Good thing there's very little traffic unlike Tokyo. Fortunately he didn't get hurt & hope you had insurance at the bike rental. Well done vid, Hokaido is beautiful.
I need to put my feet DOWN when I hit the break. That was the problem. I'd do that on turns. Doing it on the course is not so practical and once I foxed that and hugging the tank with my thighs instead of gripping the handles so tight, I could relax and "the training kicked it" Keep working on skills is a huge asset, make good habits and take it serious. More fun that way too.
Thank you John for this documentary video. I have new perspective regarding Hokkaido… in a warm way. Before this video, I had no desire to to go to Hokkaido. I have changed my mind.
You and PVG are great together. Real synergy 😊
I’m really glad to hear this. Hokkaido was the last of the 4 main Islands I visited in Japan. I think besides the Snow Festival, there wasn’t any BIG reason to visit but over the last 10 years, it’s really opened up. Cooler in the summer, comfortable - long days of sunshine, food and nature is another level of amazing and of course there is a lot of Japanese culture here to immerse into just like in other places without the crowds. And driving and riding here is perfect!
These trips on motorcycle always make me want to just take my bike and go 😅 anywhere but my house ! Very nice landscape. Thank you for the video 🎉
Reupload? The original was over an hour long? Didn't get a chance to see it yet. Shame I now have to make do with the shorter version.
Yeah I wonder why it was changed
It’s coming later this week. I should not have released it. Something to look forward to. But - DID YOU LIKE IT? I mean, we worked pretty hard on it.
@@onlyinjapan thanks for the reply John. I always like more of you (longer videos). Hello from Finland! 😊👍🏻
Riding motorcycle is not easy i applaud you riding and falling it is part of learning. Hoping to see more motor rides with Peter.
Loved this shortened adventure and viewing it again brings back memories. PvG's video was good too. ❤👹🤣
Nice to see Peter again 🤙🏼
I have ridden all over Hokkaido going up every summer and there is still so much to see. Unfortunately I havent been 2019 and then I was in the middle of retirement this summer, but next year I am planning to return again.
with Peter's OV somehow i am watching NHK right now 😂
Thanks - but when you compare it to NHK, somehow the video won't do well on TH-cam hahaha but that smooth even voice certainly gives it that pro feeling like a TV show.
It's good that you lads are more comfortable being out now.
I got to go to Hokkaido earlier this year during the Winter. It's so cool seeing the area in a warmer time of the year, I really wanna go back again during this time period at some point to experience it for myself. Otaru was a fun place to go around and I recognized a few other region names from my travels there.
That intro is like a fever dream fantasy but reality paradise 🪷
A lot of classic serpentza and cmilk vibes from this episode!
Hey guys, wanted to say huge thanks from Australia for your motorcycling in Hokkaido vid. Watched it and immediately thought We gotta do that! Rented bike from 819, stayed at Kitukituki and ate (twice) at Minato sushi. Love this island and its people … and now we’ve done central and west, will be back to do north and east. Thanks again! Ps: hope your riding skills have improved! ;)
They have, during the trip! Rode through rain and darkness, cities - just fine after the first 24 hours :)
The keisatsu - police looks very friendly.. ❤
A very kind and professional police officer. We instinctively were worried when we saw him pull up, but he was just here to help.
@@onlyinjapan So glad all turned out well. Safe travels.
Thank you so much for making this video. It was very delightful to watch.
I liked it all, but my favorite part was the Ainu People.
I was thinking how much like Native Americans they were right before Peter said it. I agree with the people that say they were part of a migration of people traveling. They got to Hokkaido and decided to stay while others kept going. The migration brought people all the way into South America, a VERY long time ago.
For us, it was critical to add learning experiences and for Hokkaido, none are more worthwhile that the Ainu people. The museum is somewhat controversial, it doesn’t talk about the modern history, but it does teach about the culture and it’s much improved since the last time I went in 2017 when it was kind of a disaster as you. And see in a live stream I did back them on my GO channel
Incredibly well produced video, John. Bravo!
OMG John! I visited the Noboribetsu Toy Museum last year because of your original video! I showed him your video to tell him that's how I knew of the museum. It was amazing!!! I unfortunately did not know about the huge Oni, I will have to visit again to get a photo. Also, you won't believe, that spot on the Shakotan Peninsula at 29:38 where those tunnels are, I took a bus along there to visit the Shimamui Coast and missed my stop as I thought I was supposed to go further. It started to rain and I had no umbrella for a half an hour walk back to the correct spot, but that coastline in the rain was STUNNING. I'll never forget it. Some little kids came over and thought I was from Russia. I told them I'm from Australia and they looked at me like WHERE?
I could’ve watched an entire hour of the toy museum. Very cool.
Maybe this can help: th-cam.com/video/ZsrIKelPVU0/w-d-xo.html
Its amazing you didnt cut the falling parts. It really reassures that this can happen to anybody and that you are not taken to the police by instant XD
Don’t cut parts that are embarrassing, I think that isn’t helpful. It does happen to new riders and anyone who thinks they’re perfect needs to remember they’re not. I will never forget it with this video 😂
I remember watching the lives you were doing while you were on the trip, and I was really loving it! You and Pete really are a great duo! hahaha.. Thank you for these amazing episodes, John, and Pete! Hope you are great!
A good memory for you and for us! Also love Peter’s voice ❤
Sensational! Interesting seeing both takes of the trip. Was this work? Because it certainly didn't look like it! 😁
Didn't catch all the live streams - Missed that visit to the Toy Museum in Noboribetsu. As something of a toy collector myself, hope you do get another chance to do a full story of that museum in future - That toy collection is downright amazing!
That quirky cabin by the roadside was also something of a highlight. 😎
I loved this Glad i was one of the first kickstarter supporter! thanks for the share stay awesome!
You were with us from Day 1 at the motorcycle school and then on the ride! Thank you Ramsessilent!!
@@onlyinjapan enjoyed every min.!
Loved the video John! Watched this your GO channel
Hi John , this was great. I love it!!! Im curious, did you have to pay much for the "damage" to the bike? Just curious.
I loved it all, not just the scenery, but the food, drone shots and even Peters commentary.
Cheers, Melb Australia
About $200 - it was anything major. broken parts that were easily fixable.
The added sound track music additions really enhanced the final product and I was glad to see my favorite clips survived. Just went back and checked the "Review" I had originally done and each point was preserved. Here is the Review restated: Informative? Yes, with both historical and cultural narrative from the importance of the Ainu to even the Russian influence on Otaru. Riveting? Yes, with a fast paced storyline that moves as fast as the motorcycles and RV. Dramatic? Yes, with the attack of the Melon Kuma. Suspenseful? Yes, with John's every effort to stay erect on the bike while negotiating turns. Cousine Centric? Yes, with the depiction of meals that could challenge the Food Channel's efforts including sizzling Wagyu steak on a camp stove to succulent fresh cracked Hokkaido crab. Humorous and Witty? Yes, from milking a cow to comical butter making. Moving? Yes, observing from the banter between John and Peter their comradely. Naturalistic? Yes, impressive wild animal encounters from foxes to bears not to mention learning about the role of owls and crows in Ainu Culture.
I was also pleased to see that the "Easter egg" I had discovered in the original Kickstarter video was preserved in the edited TH-cam version. At approximately 24 minutes in one can see a Shitoki necklace hanging from the neck of one of the Ainu dancers. A Shitoki necklace, which has cultural significance, is made from historic trading beads with an added medallion and at least one is in the possession of the Ainu Museum in Hokkaido. (When I had learned that the Kickstarter project was to include a visit to the Ainu Museum, I suggested to Peter and John that they might want to locate and film a Shitoki similar to one that my Uncle had passed on to me after its having been gifted to him by the townspeople of Chitose in appreciation for his kindnesses to them when he headed the U.S. Occupation efforts in Hokkaido.)
I was most appreciative of Peter's and John's comments to me in their Kickstarter "Shout Out" when John stated, "We weren't able to go and see your contribution to the Ainu National Museum, but we will one day get in there and see it - we'll definitely be back to the area," and Peter added, "And you'll see in the documentary some of the fantastic footage that we got visiting these Ainu villages." What a surprise to have been able to discover a Shitoki in the "documentary" despite their not having been able to enter the museum itself due to COVID (or as the Japanese term it, "Corona") restrictions.
@@dalejay8901 ah, good eyes to see that and thank you for explaining the signifacance. We both really appreciate it Dale! .
@@onlyinjapan Thank you! Dale Walther
Awesome video, I've dreamt of taking a motorcycle tour of Japan for years. I hope John got extra insurance on his bike! 😆
Same, then one day I pulled the trigger and I was on a Hokkaido highway going 80km/hr to a volcanic hot spring town! Haha - nope, I got dinged about $200 but all repairable and nothing major. Haven’t dropped a bike since 🤘
@@onlyinjapan that’s not too bad. I moved my family from Wisconsin to Florida last year and sold my bikes when I did. I really do miss riding.
Another great vid from John. Hats off showing your falls. I remember oh so well having a huge first bike in USA that initially I couldn't upright it by myself when it tipped over that first week. What a delight to other drivers around me when I stopped traffic like that. Great work John
I did this trip on a motorcycle with my buddy 10 years ago. We went to Obihiro. The rain was hard and if felt like needles when you open your face shield. Great video guys
Thank u for sharing this trip with us. U have an awesome traveling companion
More something like this! Cool dudes, Japan and motorcycles! Yes!
mr. Finglish (Bäd English Recs)
Aye this really excites me for you. Ive ridden a bit when i was younger riding in Japan looks fun.
Thanks!
Thank you ^_^
The others guy voice is amazing, it reminds me of those Japanese travels shows that is being narrated in english.
… because his job is narrating TV shows like in NHK 😂 he was the voice of the ANA airline’s safety video and many other attractions around the country.
if America and Japan had one thing in common, it’s one beautiful motorcycle culture
Hi John and Peter, I was only thinking about you two guys the other day and about some of the walks you have done together around Tokyo, and I am thrilled to pieces to see the two of you together on bikes, I'm over the Moon because I'm a biker myself, congratulations John on getting on the bike and we have all fallen over my friend. I would be honoured to ride with you and Peter. The Cop seemed very concerned and helpful Man you two do a great show together, I hope to see you both on more rides, as I say I'm over the Moon 💯🙏❣️ cheers Paul Girkin from Australia
Thoroughly enjoyed the video and love that you left in your falls. Makes you relatable.
We all fall down, why edit that out? I learned from other bikers (who’ve had their ups and downs) and that’s how we get better and safer. Learn from each other even the bad, make it a good.
Long way Hokkaido 😅, thank you for this adventure
i will say this again, the narration in your videos are top notch! they really got me through a tough time this year! and "rental 819 (ha-i-ku)" cool name!
Discovery channel we deserved! Amazing job, John and Peter, just amazing! Respect from bikers of Armed Forces of Ukraine. Hope we'll have these rider's houses (41:40) in Ukraine after the war.
Looking forward to see sequel of this epic show 20 years later - starring Joji von Gomm and Leo Daub. :)
Let the crashpads be with you! (for not to brake levers, pedals, and mirrors). ;)
Wow! John got his own license?! Living the dream!
Chitose airport sounds like "Cheetos airport"😂
Hahaha! I thought that same thing my time time flying in there 😂 ✈️
Japanese Daub is a legend among other western jvloggers. Salute to you mr. Daubutsu
What happened to the longer one? I was literally about to watch it when you took it down 😢
he's separating it into 2 segments
Me too... Maybe he figured that he could chop it up and make more smaller videos?
Ohhh thats why
@@dachosenone207 GOOD OLD JOHN our treasure!!
I found 2 mistakes with audio and video glitches, but got a lot of feedback. Majority said it was too long and some said to break it into short 10 min segments … but I think 2 is better. I also want to give the proper attention to the RV and it gets lost with being combined with the motorcycle. It hurts now 😞 really sad about taking it offline - had to time it as a best I could - but it made more sense for the channel and the viewers who hadn’t started watching yet. It wasn’t an easy decision, still dreading it.
Wow! This was really amazing. I am glad I rewatched the live footage from the same trip, before watching the documentary. I truly loved the scenic views and the great quality of the video. I loved all the places you and Peter visited and the food looked scrumptious. This is a great roadmap for potential bikers, that would like to experience the same wild travel experience. Just you and the road. I do prefer your live stream because I get to see you and Peter interact and I think that is where the magic happens. ❤ Two friends on the road, experiencing what Hokkaido has to offer. I do not enjoy the scripted parts, because both you and Peter sound different but it is perfect for narration though. I prefer the casual and entertaining banter between you two. Hilarious! 😂 I cannot wait for Part 2 Next week! Matane, John Daub and PVG. PS: This must have been exhausting and taken a lot to produce. Thanks to everyone who contributed to the Kickstarter project!
Great video John.Thanks, it is nice to see Peter , also RIP motorcycle 🤣
Hello John, could you please consider making a video on how to obtain a biker license in Japan? Your series on obtaining a car license has been incredibly helpful. Thank you.
There are several live streams as I was taking the course on ONLY in JAPAN GO 1 year ago 😉 this was the last one, I did 2 others: th-cam.com/users/liveW6dzA6xq6Qc?feature=share channel: @onlyinjapango
@@onlyinjapan Thank you I was searching for one on this channel
Nice trip with great company! was worth the wait to watch it! I visited the same brewery in Otaru, so good!
fun fact, 819 is ha-i-ku which can be read as baiku, the japanese word for motorcycle!!
So brave doing a trip as your first ride out. I was exhausted after a two hour first ride. ✌🏼🙌👏
Great work to all involved.
Wow! That was epic! Beautiful as usual. Haven't been watching the live streams recently because life is now back to "normal".
Glad to hear it, I streamed before the pandemic to bring people with me on the adventures and the channel was a stop to get info on what was happening during *that* time. And some indoor camping ⛺️ 😂 It’s good that it’s back to normal and I can do something like this again!
@@onlyinjapan I remember that indoor camping stream. Gave some sense of normalcy during that time. Thanks!