Last Day of Tour

We woke to behold a pretty sunrise outside our window at Marukama Ryokan (established 1915, where emperors have been known to stay), which overlooks Lake Shikotsu. After another hearty breakfast, we packed up for the final ride of the tour. Another bear warning sign greeted us as we began our short, downhill, slightly chilly ride.

Afterwards, we had a delectable lunch of mushroom pasta, salad, fabulous bread, and a rich, delicious dessert at Nao, a little Italian restaurant tucked away in a wooded area in Chitose. The owner chef forages for wild mushrooms and has even encountered a bear doing so.

Our gear didn't disappoint. We are very happy with the skullcaps we wore under our helmets to warm our heads and ears. Our rain jackets kept us protected from the wind and rain. I was pleased that the hood fit over my helmet, which really kept the cold air out.Read more