During this year’s Golden Week, I rented a Honda CL500 and embarked on a three-day, two-night touring trip from the Kansai region to the Chugoku region. I wanted to test how this mid-class scrambler, with its 500cc displacement and torque, would perform on a long-distance ride.
On the second day, I traveled from Kinosaki Onsen, passing through Amarube Railway Bridge, Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Castle, and Hakuto Coast, finally reaching Tsuyama Castle. It was a route that took me along the beautiful coastline of the Sea of Japan, sand dunes, and historical sites.
Starting the Day with a Morning Bath at Kinosaki Onsen
At 7 AM, I decided to visit two public baths in Kinosaki Onsen before setting off.
After soaking in the two hot springs, I felt refreshed and ready to go.
Heading West Along the Sea of Japan
As a child, I often visited the Sea of Japan during summer vacations. Even now, I was moved by its unchanged clarity as I headed west.
Visiting Amarube Railway Bridge
The first destination was the “Amarube Railway Bridge.” The massive bridge piers stood tall against the backdrop of the sky and sea.
The view from the “Sky Station” was breathtaking.
Visiting Tottori Sand Dunes
Next, I headed to the sand dunes in Tottori City. I got off the bike and enjoyed the expansive scenery of sand and sea.
Although the photos make it look like the weather was pleasant, in reality, it was a sandstorm with strong winds and flying sand particles, making it difficult to walk.
For lunch, I had beef bone ramen and a chashu pork bowl near the Tottori Sand Dunes. They were delicious!
Visiting Tottori Castle and Hakuto Coast
In Tottori City, I stopped by the ruins of Tottori Castle, and then headed to Hakuto Coast, known for the legend of the White Rabbit of Inaba.
Although the main keep of Tottori Castle no longer exists, the ruins conveyed the grand scale of the castle from that time.
And then, to Hakuto Coast.
At Hakuto Coast, I visited the famous “Sunaba Coffee” and enjoyed a caramel Vienna coffee.
After a short break, I headed to the final destination of the day, the ruins of Tsuyama Castle.
Arriving at Tsuyama Castle Ruins
In the evening, I arrived in Tsuyama City. Gazing at Tsuyama Castle bathed in the setting sun, I was enveloped in a quiet sense of accomplishment.
I stayed at “Hotel Alpha-One Tsuyama.” They were considerate about motorcycle parking, which was reassuring.
After dinner, I relaxed in the hotel’s large public bath and fell asleep immediately.
Summary of the Day
- Total distance traveled: Approximately 180 km
- Places visited: Amarube Railway Bridge, Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Castle, Hakuto Coast, Tsuyama Castle
- 走行ルート
Tomorrow, I’ll head east to the Seto Inland Sea, visiting Ako, Himeji, and Akashi! To be continued on the final day…
