After a brief orientation at the meeting point, we will ride alongside the Hankyu railway to the Minoh station area. We will then ascend the mountain road, and ride to Katsuoji, taking in stunning views over Osaka, and the Minoh mountains. If all goes smoothly, we'll arrive before 10:30, beating the crowds arriving on tour buses. After a toilet stop at the entrance, we will make a leisurely circuit of the temple grounds. At Katsuoji you can: - check the Yakudoshi chart of auspicious ages to see if you're in for a lucky or unlucky year - step through the spiral path of the Circle of Wisdom and make a wish - burn an incense stick and pray at one of the shrines - purchase a protective charm or Daruma doll containing a fortune slip - these are all in Japanese but I'm happy to translate - stamp your postcard (received free on entry) at each of the stamping stations, to complete the multi-layered mosaic image or just take in the experience and enjoy the stunning views.

We will descend the mountain road to the Minoh Falls parking area, and park the bikes. Then it's a short walk through the forest down to best place for taking in the waterfall. There are benches, vendors selling food and drinks and public toilets. This is a great spot for an ice-cream, photos or just a well-earned rest.

After leaving the waterfall, we will head first to the meeting place to return the bikes and retrieve luggage.