muzukashi

as the karaoke didn't happen last night after a drink I decided to head over to yoshino in nara today which is famous for its cherry blossom. obviously I'm aware it's not that time of year but I reckoned the dying leaves would be a nice backdrop to a long ride. the 120kms didn't hurt too much probably due to the decent breakfast and eating sensibly, at the right times (for once) during the day.

one thing that's worthwhile to bear in mind if you're cycling in japan is the amount of tunnels. they are certainly no place for cyclists as they often have heavy traffic as well as poor lighting and air and many are very long. it's pretty essential to have a good map for reference or even to take with you: if there isn't a pass you could be in for a very long detour. the bonus is though, that the passes are beautiful, generally car-free areas - so if you have the lungs you'll get a very satisfying view from the top.

the map of the route above shows a spine in the middle which is the border of osaka and nara prefectures: the final climb today is a favourite but pretty tough little bastard which brings you down into tondabayashi on the osaka side. the pass - the mizukoshi toge - is a lovely, quiet road with springs to fill your water bottle (often with locals stocking up with huge containers like today) and little if no traffic. it is a hard climb though with some severe gradients - I affectionately know it as the muzukashi, or, 'difficult' pass.

I need a massage.