Cycling Japan 2018
I’ll be cycling in Japan for the next few weeks. This is my first two days: riding from Nara to Matsusaka. Its only about 85 miles, but with over 9,000’ of gain. Lots of up and down on the touring bike.
However, the day before getting on the plane I had to modify my planned route because of Typhoon Jebi, the worst storm to hit Japan in 25 years, which slammed the country less than a week before I planned to start riding. And it was a direct hit to Kansai, the region where I was starting my tour.
The website that shows road closures had so many red circles with “X’s” signifying mudslides, fallen trees or damaged roads it was almost impossible to find a clear route. No doubt this “plan” will result in some further adjustments as I go. Fortunately, alternate routes for detours in Japan are usually well signposted, though on a bike it can sometimes result in a bunch of extra miles. I’m gonna have to stay flexible.
On top of this, less than 24 hours before departing, Hokkaido was hit by an earthquake that cut power to over 3 million buildings and caused a bunch of landslides. While I’m not planning any bike touring there this time, Alison and I will be in Hokkaido in a few weeks. Yup, this is going to be an interesting Japan trip.
robert j. mang cycling/travel 