Day 7 - Kunitomi to Hyuda
Distance: 73.6 km Ride Time: 3.48 hours Elevation Gain: 636 m
Today felt like something out of The Amazing Race! With map apps proving less than reliable, we split into three teams and relied on a combination of Komoot, Google Maps, Apple Maps, and live location sharing via WhatsApp to navigate. Team 1 — Joel, Trent, Eric, and Simon H — had a knack for deciphering clues and forging ahead. Linda and Matt (Team 3) reconnected with them throughout the day, while Meg and Simon B formed Team 2 and navigated primarily via Kamoot.
Navigating through stretches of busy road, we stuck to back lanes or sidewalks where possible. Our journey began along narrow laneways shaded by tall bamboo and bordered by moss-covered retaining walls, a truly picturesque start. The region is deeply agricultural, and we passed through quiet villages nestled in lush valleys. Along the way, we saw fields with all sorts of produce. Team 2 experienced a more remote path with kumara (sweet potatoes), yams, aubergine, capsicum, leeks, kiwifruit, grapes, plums, loquats, lettuce (both red and green), cabbages, cucumbers, pumpkin and, of course, rice. They were fairly certain they even spotted a mango tree. A peaceful garden stop gave us a chance to enjoy the now, traditional egg sandwich beside koi-filled ponds.
By early afternoon, we regrouped just 2 km from the hotel, check-in wasn’t until 3:00 p.m., and we had 90 minutes to spare. So, we detoured to the iconic Stairs of the Sea in Kanagahama, Hyuga City a well-known surfing spot with stunning Pacific Ocean views. This area has become a seaside haven, with its relaxed, resort-like vibe attracting visitors from across Miyazaki Prefecture and beyond. The waterfront is a concentrated area of charming local shops, including a gelateria that features fruit grown in the region, a deli brimming with fresh produce, and casual eateries offering hearty hamburgers and Italian fare.
Our lunch stop was at Teddy’s Burger, a celebrated name that’s won Hawaii’s BEST Burger Award 20 years running. Now newly opened in Kyushu, it didn’t disappoint, 100% beef patties, homemade “super sauce,” and an abundance of fresh Miyazaki-grown vegetables. It was a delicious end to a satisfying ride.
By 2:50 p.m., we pedalled the final stretch to our hotel with a view of about 30 surfers catching waves right outside our window.
Hyuga is framed by protective mountain ranges and has served as a vital port for centuries. The coastal district of Hososhima has long been a key link to the rest of the prefecture.
According to legend, Japan’s first emperor has roots in this region. Ninigi, grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, is said to have descended to Miyazaki, where he lived for many years. His grandson, Emperor Jimmu, later launched his campaign to unify Japan from nearby Mimitsu, eventually founding the Yamato dynasty in Nara a lineage that continues to this day. Near this historical site lies a large natural boulder mentioned in the Japanese national anthem, formed from fused pebbles.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast for tomorrow is daunting, 180 mm (7 inches) of rain is expected, along with high winds, mudslides, and potential flooding. We will reassess in the morning and plan accordingly.
Stay tuned, more adventures to come!
Sayonora,
Matt, Linda and Meg
