Today’s agenda differed in that we did not ride until the afternoon. We spent the morning exploring Kanazawa with lots of time in Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s three greatest gardens and the Kanazawa Castle. Kenrokuen means “combining six features”— spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, abundant water and panoramic views. Turns out today was a Japan national holiday the the garden was swarming with Japanese tourists and visitors. It also rained 🌧️.

Later we were transported to the mountainous region of Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture where we rode a scenic loop ride. The ride is Ross’s favorite of the seven rides on this tour. It delivered on his promise and was quite special… even magical. One long climb on a quiet road through lush vegetation with lots of flowing streams and some waterfalls. The sights and sounds made for a zen ride. I particularly loved the numerous tunnels we rode through. (Okay, the tunnels weren’t so zen like.)

We also took a slight detour to ride across and back, a very narrow orange bridge. Judy called it the Golden Gate Bridge. It was unbelievable

It also rained 🌧️.

The ride ended at our ryokan Yamanaka Onsen where we said goodbye to our passenger van driver (tomorrow we get a new driver). Yamanaka means “middle of mountain”.

I have been thoroughly enjoying and appreciating the onsens. After a ride a hot soak feels luscious and it is great for post-ride muscle recovery. Quite relaxing.

We ate dinner at our ryokan which meant…