Cycling in Otsu
Date: Sunday, March 14, 2021
Meeting time: 10:30 a.m.
Meeting place: JR Otsu Station
Cost: FEW members: FREE
Nonmembers (women only): ¥500 (by midnight, 3/12)
Register by: Friday, March 12, midnight
Spring is on the way, and FEW Kansai has an exciting and energizing event on our March calendar—cycling in Otsu! Novice or pro, bike owner or no, you are welcome to join us for a 20-kilometer round trip on a mostly flat cycle path next to the water. From Otsu Station we will cycle east along Lake Biwa, then head south along the Seta River to the historic and uniquely beautiful temple Ishiyamadera (see https://www.ishiyamadera.or.jp/guide/event/umetsukushi for information about the temple, including entrance fees). There, we can stroll through the temple’s gorgeous plum garden, engage an English-speaking tour guide, relax while eating our bento, and even do a bit of antique shopping. After that, if we still have time and energy, we can cycle farther along the lake or return to Otsu and relax at a café with outdoor seating.
We will meet at JR Otsu Station, which is 70 minutes by train from Sumiyoshi and 90 minutes from Sannomiya. We will then proceed to the bicycle-rental shop, where we have reserved nine bicycles (four pedal-assist e-bikes and five 24-gear cross bikes; bike choice will be made at the shop). The bicycle-rental fee is ¥250 an hour, including helmets. You may bring your own bike if you wish; however, it must be carried in a bag on the train.
Registrants should bring the following items to the event:
- Personal ID for the bike rental
- Funds for bicycle rental and temple entrance
- Bento lunch (a ground cloth or small mat is advisable)
- Warm jacket or windbreaker, cap or hat, and gloves (it can be breezy along the lake)
- Face mask and hand sanitizer (we will be social distancing as much as possible)
Please register by midnight, March 12, and be sure to indicate on the registration form if you will rent a bike or bring your own. While we always hope for perfect weather, we will be in touch if there are any changes because of bad weather. If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact FEW Kansai.
We look forward to seeing you for a thrilling ride along the lake!
