We wanted a 'rest day' it has all been quite full on with me working evenings and being so busy-bee like in the day.
Katano bridge was supposed to be nice, and we had the bikes. According to Ryan and google maps, a 20 min cycle away - we could be home in 90 mins!
So off we set.
The cycle was actually lovely, and I had to stop and take a picture of this huge old bridge covered in Ivy.
We made it to Hoshida park, where the bridge lived.
First thing's first...
Yes. It was a bit of a mission.
At the top we found the whole place deserted, and a park - I have dubbed it the Ninja Training Park!
We walked about for a while...
And apart from this simple shrine... it became clear this place was very small, certainly not home to a massive bridge. Time for me to take over on the maps I think.
We were only another hour away! although they shouldn't name their parks the same :)
Typical.
We debated, and decided we might as well carry on, even if we didn't make it all the way.
But we found a beautiful temple which I will stop by again.
And the cycle WAS cute and we found these carp streamers (Koinobori) which are flown for childrens day, they are considered the most spirited fish!
After a while, we headed off the road onto a riverside path:
And the path got rockier and rockier, and we were pretty much off-roading!
Until we hit these...
Lots and lots of little ups and downs on stairways. It wasn't too bad, but eventually we were defeated. (Also a group of Japanese hikers walked past, each in turn tellings in various ways - no bikes. We HAD to leave them behind.
Finally - we knew we were on the right track! With a quick re-supply, we were ready to go.
(Vending machines are literally everywhere, even in the middle of nowhere).
So you might think this means we are there. Nope.
Next we were faced with the climb. Only 400m, it doesn't seem far, but on occasion, it can seem forever. This wiped me out more than the monkey park climb!
And at the top! At last!
The bridge itself is STUNNING, absolutely beautiful.
However, it did make Ryan feel queasy! - The swaying as you walk on it I think.
We actually made it home just in time for me to start work - whew!
Our mini-outing turned into a full on 5 hour adventure... so much for a rest day!
x