Cycling Across Hokkaido, Japan (Day 4): From Hamanaka to Kiritappu

Just a short day today…less than 30km on the bike, but plenty to see, as we spent some time exploring the Kiritappu Wetlands.

After getting away from the cow-shaped Motto Kazete campground (we had the place, above, to ourselves), we followed the coast around Hamanaka Bay. The beach would have been perfect for holiday-goers, had it been earlier in August. As it were, I (Rob) was content with a very quick skinny-dip at this very deserted beach.

Haidee’s very capable Maxx Bikes Pacemaxx touring bicycle kept a keen lookout.

Once again, a mainstay for the economy around these parts appeared to be konbu kelp harvesting. A convenience store worker told me that the harvest season was July through October, outside of which many turned to fishing or seasonal contract work such as construction and public works.

We spent a good part of the day at the Kiritappu Wetlands nature center. This three-story mammoth building had a panoramic view over the wetlands. A perfect place to spend a few hours working on a manuscript I wanted to get completed.

The lunch offerings at the NPO-run cafe were amazing: I had a chunky vegetable and chicken curry, for around 800yen (around US$8), and so did Haidee…although we got them to transfer the chicken from her dish to mine…mmmmm….

The rest of the day consisted of nothing more than setting up camp at the excellent (and free) Kiritappu Cape campground, cooking dinner, and having a great long soak at the Kiritappu Onsen (natural hot springs). A nicely restful day.

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