Typically Japanese

Back on Honshu, I eyed Mount Iwaki as my next mountain climb because of its endless serpentines leading to the top. So much was I looking forward to this. I was both, a bit scared and delighted, when I first saw this beauty from a far distance. Having arrived at the start of the serpentines, I hid my panniers behind a tree. There is only one way up, so I can get them later again when I ride downhill. After the first turn, I had a toll gate in front of me. The manager immediately signalled that bicycles are forbidden, only cars are allowed. What on earth!!?? I still don’t know the reason for it. And I did not want to bother the kind man, he is just doing his job. Maybe because it’s too dangerous or they cannot charge cyclists. Not the first time that there is some non-sense rule I came across. Whatever, I am certain that there will be many more mountains that I can cycle. And instead I enjoyed some calm and remote jungle roads that I had nearly for myself.

By the way, did I mention how much I love Japanese supermarkets? They have a great variety of freshly prepared meals, microwaves, power sockets, wifi, a place to eat and sometimes even tea for free and a TV. It’s just perfect to rest for a while and recharge not only my batteries but also of electronics devices. Fun fact, I am often the youngest one sitting between all these elderly Japanese people. I love it!Læs mere