Settled into our routine and the group has really bonded. Our guides take turns every other day guiding us or driving the van that carries the bikes. In Japan, one has to have a special license to drive passengers plus the maximum size van cannot house both bikes and passengers so one of the guides drives the “bike” van and a professional driver drives the “passenger” van. The vans essentially follow us and at any time someone wants a lift, they are there to pick up the rider (so far no one has opted to ride in the van on the bike route).

On this ride, because we are strong riders and likely not to need van assistance, Giocomo drove the bike van ahead to the lunch stop and rode back to meet up with us along the way so he could also ride with us until lunch. 

As part of our routine, I follow the guide and then Judy and Tony drop in behind me. Fortunately that is everyone’s preference. Judy and Tony generally fall behind – especially on the climbs and on “fast” stretches. Since Giocomo joined us he rode with them and Ross rode with me. [And I forgot that the Japanese roads are left-side drive so I have to pay careful attention – especially when checking for traffic and making turns.]

The ride concluded at ryokan nestled in a protected cove. The crashing waves were particularly rough and made for a mesmerizing view. This inn offered both communal onsens and private, in-room onsens.