Tsushima to Uwajima, 14.3 km
Yes, it was almost a rest day with only 3 hours of walking at a normal pace, but we managed to extend it as check in at the business hotel we’d booked for the night was 3pm, and we know from past experience that they are very strict (they didn’t disappoint in this regard, but at least they let us store our backpacks).
Leaving Tsushima we had the option of the road tunnel for the old main road, or the path over the top. Sam chose the latter, while Max and I enjoyed the lightly used 1710m tunnel – lined with tiles so that you think you are walking through a disused metro station. Eventually we met up at the next Lawson, which fortunately had seats, as Sam ended up being about 20 minutes behind us.
Uwajima is an interesting town, but like many before it shows signs of economic decline. It has a wonderful covered shopping street, but only at the top end is there a sense of prosperous businesses. As you walk down, the businesses seem less prosperous until the mall ends, where the connecting streets have covered sidewalks (as opposed to the entire street being covered). These have few businesses still operating it seems.
Uwajima is also famous for bull fighting, but unlike the Spanish or Portuguese versions, here they put two bulls in the ring to duke it out. Not sure which is less offensive!
Tonight we are in a business hotel, with real beds, and real coffee and orange juice in the lobby. Looking forward to getting out of bed with ease tomorrow morning!
