I was up early trying to make sure our boots and backpacks were as dry as possible after yesterday’s soaking. Luckily our lovely host had a boot drying machine which helped
She made us a great breakfast
And gave us our packed lunch
then took us back into Koguchi to the trailhead from which we started our hike.
Although today’s hike was only actually 1km longer than yesterday’s it was much harder. Partly because for the first 5 kilometres it is UP
And UP
And yet more UP. Until eventually we reached the top, at about 860 metres.
We then had a further 9.5 kilometres to do. That was more down than up and finished with about half a kilometre of straight down steps
On the way we found more small shrines, more way markers (we had to do 29 to 1), the odd shelter, usually in the grounds where old tea houses had stood,
and some great views
At the end of the trail, at Nachi, we met a lot of the people we had made friends with over the last couple of days. Some of us ended up sharing a celebratory drink at a pop-up bar especially for people who had walked the trail
We are staying overnight at Nakanoshima, a modern hotel on an island just off the coast in Kii-Katsuura. We needed to get a small ferry to get across to the island.
Although somewhat tired we still made time for the now obligatory hot bath (this time outdoors) before heading down for dinner. Another friend we had made joined us and we had a lovely meal
While we were at dinner our room was transformed and the futons laid out.
And so our last day of hiking came to an end. We have had three amazing days spending time together and having a real adventure. We have learnt a lot about Japan and Japanese culture, and met some delightful people from all over the world.
Tomorrow we go to Osaka to meet up with Denis for our last couple of days in Japan.
Pearl Blog 3 