FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Short answers about KOMO, the Peking to Paris rally and this site. Every answer restates what is written on the site's own pages.
Who is KOMO (Sumiko Kokonno)?
Sumiko Kokonno, known as KOMO, was born in Akita Prefecture. She has given more than 300 talks across 40 prefectures and is a certified personality psychology instructor. Her company, Komochan Inc., was founded in 2016. In 2024 she finished the Peking to Paris rally, the first Japanese woman to do so.
What is the Peking to Paris rally?
It is the oldest motoring rally in the world, first run in 1907. Competitors drive about 14,500 km from Peking, China, to Paris, France. There is a classic-car class for vehicles built in 1929 or earlier.
What route did KOMO drive?
From Peking across the wilderness of Kazakhstan, then by ferry over the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan. On through Georgia, Turkey and Greece, by ferry to Italy, and to the finish in Paris, France. Because the route was changed to avoid Russia, the Caspian Sea ferry crossing was included for the first time.
How far was it, how many days, and which car?
About 14,500 km over 37 days, in a 1929 Buick. She crossed the finish line on the Champs-Élysées in Paris in June 2024.
Why did she take on Peking to Paris?
In 2022 she was told she had breast cancer and thought, “I do not want to put off what I want to do.” Peking to Paris had long been her dream race, and she says she did not want to give it up, even during treatment and after her right breast was removed.
Where can I read the record of the trip?
The “37 Days on the Road” page lets you read each day from the map. Her record of the Sahara Challenge, the warm-up for Peking to Paris, and the diary “Cancer, with a smile” each have their own pages.
What is KOMOISM?
KOMOISM is the core of what Sumiko Kokonno has drawn from her own conversations and life. It is not a method for succeeding but an answer to how to live one life, set out in eight statements at the top of the articles page (Life Lessons).
What is KOMOISM VILLAGE?
It is an online community created by KOMO, a place for people who want to enjoy life. You can join through LINE. The membership levels and what they include are described on the “Join the Village” page.
How can I ask for a talk, an interview or advice?
Write to the email address on the contact page ([email protected]). Enquiries about talks, interviews, advice on life, collaboration and advertising are welcome.
Has KOMO been covered by the media?
Yes: a feature in the car magazine Octane, an appearance on Fumiaki Nakamura’s radio programme, and newspaper coverage. The press page lists them.
Can I read the site in English?
English pages are under /en/. Articles that have an English translation can be read in English. The English version is a translation of the Japanese original.
Is the “Cancer, with a smile” diary medical advice?
No. It is a personal record of her own experience, not medical advice on diagnosis, treatment or prevention.
Related: About KOMO · The Peking–Paris Challenge · 37 Days on the Road · Contact · Sitemap