Shikoku Cycling Day 3: Rainy Ride Through Stunning Kochi from Ioki (Aki, Kochi) to Sukumo (Kochi)
Day 3 of the Shikoku cycling tour takes us deep into Kochi Prefecture, riding from Ioki (Aki City) to Sukumo, covering 178.38 km over with 1,208 meters of elevation gain.
Ride Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/14309246816
This day brought a dramatic shift in weather—steady rain and cold temperatures set in at the 62 km mark and stayed with us until nearly 160 km, turning the ride into a true test of endurance. Despite the conditions, Kochi’s raw beauty, winding coastal roads, and lush mountain scenery stood out as some of the most spectacular of the entire journey.
Highlights:
Early coastal riding through Aki and Nahari
Misty hills and quiet river valleys under the rain
Long, remote stretches along the Pacific coastline
The ever-changing, moody landscapes of western Kochi
A tough but unforgettable ride through one of Japan’s most breathtaking and underappreciated regions—Kochi Prefecture truly shines, even in the rain.
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