May and June 2026 Retrospective

It's been a shocking 2 whole months since the last post - for which I sincerely apologise!

All I can say is that lots of things have been happening, which have been prevented me from doing other things... such as writing blogs.

 However, I have managed to do get some tours in. Here are some hi-lights.

A Visit From Tokyo Backstreets Bike Tour

I was honoured by a visit from Mr Akiyama from Trailfinders LLC, who came to do a little industry research. I shamelessly asked him for as much information and advice as possible, to which he generously obliged.

Anyone going to Tokyo check out his tours!

A Visit To Another Kannon-Temple

Fellow Katsuo-ji heads will know the temple is mainly dedicated to Kannon (bodhisattva or "god" of mercy). During a recent pleasure-ride on the Hankyu Takurazuka line, I noticed a station with Kannon in the name, and decided to go and check it out. Turns it out was the home of the Nakayamadera temple, which also centers around Kannon, and has lot of nice lotus plants.

The First Tour With 5 Riders

I've had bookings of 5 before, but someone has invariably dropped out. This time we actually had 5!

Exploring Ikeda

With the intention of adding some routes featuring nearby Ikeda, I've been on a few expeditions to check out places that might be good on potential tours. The cup noodle museum is the most famous and obvious attraction, but I also enjoyed Suigetsu park, Sonpachi temple

Sanso Kaze No Mori Onsen

I finally got around to creating the Katsuoji + onsen tour, and was happy to run it for the first customers. Prior to this, I went to do my due diligence and enjoyed a bath there myself. Luckily, it lived up to expectations, and the customers were also very happy.

ShinRyoku Design of Katsuoji Stamp Postcard

With May/June, came the new stamp postcard design at Katsuoji. The sakura version definitely did a good job, but it's a little sad to get a sakura postcard but not see any real cherry blossoms, so I agree with the timing of the change.

Massive Influx Of Visitors From Utah

Although until now, the vast majority of visitors from the US came from California, there has been a surge in people from Utah. No complaints though, they were all very sweet and I hope they keep coming.

Non-Electric Assist Childrens Bike At Katsuoji Parking!

On this particular day there were a ton of cyclists for some reason, most notably of which was a small child! Amazing effort for a small child to have done the 450m climb on that.

I've written this in an incredible rush because I still don't really have time for this and am now late for something else. I hope its coherent and thanks for reading!!!