Explore Hokkaido - Cycle Around Mount Yotei, Kutchan - Day 3

Good morning Tabi-mugi Backpackers. The temperature was -1°C in the early morning but the weather forecast reported it will gradually increases to 9° C by 9am

We were glad to find out the temperature was improving earlier than expected and we were eager to start the tour.

The view of Mount Yotei as we crossed a bridge near our hostel. Mount Yotei is one of the famous mountains in Hokkaido.

And into and passing through Kutchan town as we slowly pedal our way for this adventure. 

The first 8km was slightly hilly but doable and a stop a Lawson convenience store for a rest. Temperature was 8°C but sunny.

The route today was taken from Hokkaido Cycling Tourism website with a recommendation of about 60km for beginner level. It is indeed a lovely route which I highly recommend for those who wish to seen Hokkaido with their bicycles.

There are many of this kind of cottage buildings seen which I reckon is very popular for skiers to stay during the winter.

Getting closer to the snow landscape as it slowing melting away. 

Slow but steady moving through the day with nice weather and beautiful surrounding.

Field getting ready for the vegetation to grow with a beauty setting behind it.

Somewhere along the highway we saw an entrance to a shrine.

Mount Yotei is forever following us as we went round the foot of the mountain.

At our 18km we crossed a yellow bridge called Niseko Bridge spanning over Shiribetsu River

Niseko View Plaza where there were many holiday makers taking a stop at this shopping village.

It has a farmer's market with many local produce from the many farms around the area and a wonderful experience to see the varieties of food under one single roof.

Thank you Hokkaido Cycle Tourism to the recommendation.

Arishima Ostrich farm after a distant of 24km located along the way at GPS : 42.780976, 140.731826

There were visitors stopping by the farm watching ostriches running freely, taking pictures and buying stuffs like ostrich sausages.

Occasionally you will bump into cyclists but not many for us.

Hokkaido Cycling Tourism indicates that the route is meant for beginner but be aware there is a bit of climb to face. We took it easy and push at some of the climbs.

Makkari Hot spring (真狩温泉) or known as Onsen located about 1km from Makkai Village surrounded by fields and sited on top of a small hill.

At the reception where the entrances for both sexes are seen separated.

The ride continued with endless gorgeous view.

A sign indicating we were approaching the most beautiful village in Japan. 

The continuous rural landscape that serene and awaiting Autumn to come.

The tough snow gradually melting away for the next season.

Stopping at Fukidashi Park for a rest and light refreshment after having cycled 47km for the day.

Big Sky Droplet jelly, a unique dessert to try.

Another dessert coated with peanut powder from the same stall.

Cutting across the park while enjoying the beauty of the park.

The manhole cover of Kyogoku Town. 

By the time we completed the 62km ride back to Kutchan we were unable able to try the onsen near Tabi mugi Backpackers as it was too late. Ryo San was kind to drive us to our next accommodation which was 16 km away.

A beautiful sunset at Notrack remotely located from any convenience stores where the housekeeper drove us to Makkari Town to get some food for the evening.

I would say that Day 3 ride was the toughest among all and would definitely treasure the experience especially for Jo.