FROM FINLAND TO JAPAN
Meet Your Newest Buddies, Mari and Pete!
These two adventurers just hit the road for an unforgettable road trip from Finland to Japan – and we’re thrilled to be part of it! With Nordicbuddies gear in tow, they’re bringing our Nordic spirit to every corner of the world, sharing it with the world one stop at a time.
Along the way, Mari and Pete will be spreading the Nordicbuddies good vibes, meeting amazing people, and living the bold, joyful lifestyle we stand for. Ready to ride along? Let’s go!
Who’s Behind the Wheel?
In 2021, when the world hit pause, Mari & Pete hit the road. What started as a spontaneous escape – two backpacks, a camper van, and a couple of laptops – quickly became a way of life.
Fast forward 140,000 km and 37 countries later, they’re kicking off their biggest adventure yet.
On March 15, they rolled out of Finland in Pötsi, their trusty van, Pössl Fiat Ducato, heading through Eastern Europe, the Middle East, along the Silk Road, and into Southeast Asia – all the way to Japan.
Meet Mari Muoniovaara
Nature lover. Storyteller. Van chef. Helsinki-born, 32, with a profession in communications and a past life as a sushi chef. The outdoors is her happy place – whether she’s hiking, golfing, snowboarding, or foraging in the forest. Obsessed with the ocean, Mari lights up at the sight of whales, dolphins, and anything with fins. Spotting whales in the wild has been one of her most unforgettable travel moments.
Mari is the one capturing their journey and making sure their story is told in a way that does it justice. And naturally, she runs the van kitchen – because no great adventure runs on an empty stomach.
Meet Pete Pättiniemi
Explorer. Idea guy. Deal maker. Helsinki-born, 36, Pete has spent most of his adult life bouncing around the Nordics – with recent winters in Norway, chasing fresh powder and new challenges. From 20 years of semi-pro ice bandy to solo motorbike trips across Europe, snowmobiling in Lebanon, and even a small avalanche in Iceland – adventure is in his DNA. He’s always planning the next move.
Pete is the designated driver, mountain pass scout, and the guy who always finds the roads worth remembering (even the terrifying ones).
The Road Ahead
Blog posts
From Finland to Japan: Driving deep into Central Asia – crossing the Stans
It’s now been over 200 days, 25 countries, and 30,000 kilometers on the road for Mari and Pete. Read latest updates on their journey travelling from Finland to Japan!
From Finland to Japan: The journey so far with your buddies, Mari & Pete
Mari and Pete set off from Finland in spring 2025 with their campervan and a dream of reaching Japan. So far: 5 months, 21 countries, 2 continents, and well over...
The Map
See where have Mari & Pete travelled so far.
Let's Get Social
Follow their journey to see where they're headed and what they’re up to:
@muoniovaara & @pete_pattis
