Day 28 - Lake Kussharo to Shari - 105kms
This morning, when I was getting ready to leave, the clouds were slowly lifting to reveal the hills surrounding the lake. I decided to begin my climb up Bihoro Pass. The climb was really nice. A constant 4-5% incline and a good view of the lake I camped at below. By 7:30am I was at the summit and timed it perfectly. The cloud was clearing to reveal the lake and the amazing surrounds. It was so beautiful. Spent a good hour just enjoying the views.
I then, as is the norm, got to enjoy a great descent down the other side. I looked at the speedo and noticed the bike was doing approximately 55kmph! I was enjoying the descent so much that I missed my turn off! Worked out okay though, I replotted my route to take me across to the north coast. There were a series of short rolling hills, but then it was flat. Had a slight headwind, which kept me cool. Stopped at the wildflower national park on the coast. Very pretty seeing all the different flowers currently in bloom. It just amazes me how beautiful this place is. I decided, upon a good recommendation by Raphaël, to stay at the Clione Guest House in Shari. The guest house is a combination of campground, dorm rooms and individual rooms. I picked an individual room for ¥3000. Which is a relative bargain. The place is very relaxing. You can even go outside and pick your own strawberries to enjoy. Once again I've had a fun day. A long day riding, but with great scenery it is so easy. Tomorrow I have a short ride to get me closer to Shiretoko National Park. I've got myself booked in for a walk with a guide around Five Lakes on Thursday morning. |
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Day 29 - Shari to Shiretoko campground - 40kms
I left Shari by 6am, as I wanted to try and get the 10am ferry. I stopped at the Oshinkoshin waterfalls. They were right next to the road and are one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls. They were pretty nice.
I got to the small town of Utoro by 8:30am. I went to the ferry office and got a ticket for the 10am trip. This trip takes you to the tip of Japan along the coast of the Shiretoko National Park. Just as we left a fog rolled in. We could not see a thing. After about 25 minutes the captain decided to turn the boat back. We all got a refund. I was of course disappointed not to see the coast. After I rode up the hill to the campground, which is shared with deers, and had a look around the small town. I thought I'd try again with the ferry, as they had an afternoon departure at 2pm. Very happy I did, as the fog had lifted just another to give really good views of the coast. It was absolutely breathtaking. The trip went for almost fours hours in total. So by the time we got back I still had to walk up to the campground and go to the onsen. A really nice end to the day. |
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Day 30 - Shiretoko National Park - 28kms
I had a short ride out to the Shiretoko national park this morning. Weather was just picture perfect. I had a guided walk booked for 9:30am, which takes you around the five lakes. You are not allowed to go by yourself this time of year due to very active bears.
The views of the mountains from the lakes were just amazing. The lakes were so reflective. Our guide was very informative and also spoke good English. This area is home to a number of bears. I only caught a glimpse of one hiding in the forest. Plenty of deers to see though. I've really enjoyed the couple of days I have spent around here. I have been very fortunate with the weather. Tomorrow I have another pass to climb. Weather is looking good. |
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