After enjoying the ice cream we left Hakata beach and headed for the Hakata- Oshima bridge. Around this point there are two rivers that come together (confluence) and if you looks closely at the water you can see the whirlpools.

From the bridge we headed on to Oshima island. While the island features the highest elevation point along the ride we took a diversion and decided to go around the island with a different view.

We stopped to look at a rose garden…. While being at the end of the season still had blooms out.

From here we passed through farms, port areas until the final bridge, Kurushima (or bridges) came into view.

The last bridge is just over 4km long – and we were pleased to have limited wind. When on this bridge you had a sense of achievement for coming as far as you have, and sadness as you know your near the end of the ride.

This area is a significant shipping area.. and there are many ships which use this passage for freight.

We made a brief stop at the cyclist station for a photo with the sign – we had missed it last time (it’s not we’ll sign posted) for the required end of ride picture before the final few kilometres to the city of Imabari.

The ride down to Imabari if you’re following the blue line does have a little traffic… so instead we took a different route which was quieter and more enjoyable, before making it to the hotel.

Ride details

Kilometres cycling – 52.09 km (that’s what Strava tells me)

Elevation gain – 332

Walking – 16,285

… and it was truly a fabulous ride, and so pleased to have experienced it again. Ah.