Day 6 - Kirishima to Kunitomi
Distance: 72.7 km Elevation Gain: 985 m Ride Time: 4.25 hours
This morning greeted us with a spectacular rainbow as the fog began to lift, an uplifting sight after yesterday’s grueling ride through relentless rain and mist. Over breakfast, we shared laughs and reflections, especially when Simon B joked that during the final hour yesterday, he would have happily traded his net worth for a lift in the support van!
Before we hit the road, we caught a breathtaking view of Mt. Sakurajima volcano billowing in the distance. It was such a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop. Unlike the previous day, the skies were clear, spirits were high, and we all relished the long, sweeping downhill ride into the valley below.
A quick stop at the ever-reliable Lawson convenience store gave us the chance to refuel and sample new varieties of Japanese chocolates (a highlight for many of us!).
Along the way, we learned more about Japan’s rich tapestry of history and culture. The country is divided into 47 prefectures, grouped into eight distinct regions: Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu-Okinawa. Each region boasts its own dialect, customs, and deep-rooted traditions.
Miyazaki, the region we are cycling through today, is famous for its high-quality Wagyu beef. Known for its exquisite marbling, tenderness, and savory umami flavor, this Wagyu is a staple in dishes like premium steaks, sukiyaki, and Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), and often paired with fresh local vegetables.
Miyazaki’s sunny climate contributes to the laid-back yet industrious character of its residents. The region is also a hub for professional sports training, especially baseball, drawing national teams during the early months of the year. Local initiatives, such as the “Sports Land Miyazaki” campaign, aim to position the area as a prime destination for both athletic development and tourism.
Today’s ride was thankfully more relaxed than yesterday’s. We made several enjoyable stops, including Lake Mike with crazy dragon boats and a charming roadside citrus stall where we sampled hyuganatsu, a deliciously refreshing fruit that’s somewhere between a lemon and a grapefruit.
Though Aya Castle was closed when we arrived, we wandered the grounds of this impressive wooden structure, which dates back to around 1331. It holds the title of Japan’s oldest surviving mountain castle, another fascinating piece of history tucked away in the countryside.
To wrap up the day, JD, our teacher and guide, shared a lovely Japanese custom: travelers are encouraged to bring back a small gift, something unique to the region, to share with others. Not only is it a thoughtful gesture, but it also supports the local economy (and, as JD pointed out with a grin, it’s even a tax write-off!).
Sayonora,
Matt, Linda and Meg
