Ishina Natural Cedar Route
This route crosses the Osado Mountains from Ishina on the Sotokaifu coast to Waki on the Ryotsu Port side. The road from Ishina up the Ishina River is free of any sounds of civilization. Nearing the summit at around 900m of altitude is an unforgiving environment where the effect of heavy winter snows and fierce seasonal winds can be seen in the unique forms of the cedar trees. If you have time, a walk in the virgin cedar forest is highly recommended. However, once you park at the bike rack on the trail, the loop trail takes around 1h 40mn. Over on the Waki side of the mountains, there is a giant horse chestnut tree at the roadside with a 7.7m circumference. There are no vending machines or shops on this route, so please be fully prepared and equipped, bringing something to drink and your own lunch.
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Distance: 19.6km
- Approximate time required (at an average speed of 15km/h): 2h
- Elevation gain: 1,094m
- Highest point: 828m
- Starting point: Ishina
- Finish: Waki
1. Introduction to the route
2. Route highlights
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Osado Ishina Natural Cedars
There is a leisurely loop trail to enjoy the Ishina natural cedar trees growing at around 900m. You can also park a vehicle close to the trailhead.
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Ishina Seisuiji Temple
An ancient temple standing on a sacred spot for mokujiki ascetic practices (consisting of eating only nuts, fruit and uncooked vegetables except for grains) on the Sotokaifu coast. Also worshipped here is the big ginkgo tree designated as Sado City's Natural Monument and known as the "Childbirth gingko tree" and the "Stomach ailments sacred tree".
3. Useful information
Cycle station
Cycling facilities (bike racks) around Sado's hotels, restaurants and tourist information centers providing free air pumps and tools for simple repairs.