Tuesday 25th April, 2017

Shizuoka to Tokyo (264 kms)

A bright sunny morning but too much cloud to get a glimpse of Mt Fuji.

We had the opportunity this morning to visit a tea farm but gave it a miss to see more of Mt Fuji.

Much excitement as we drove along and headed towards the snow capped mountain.

We climbed to 1,316 mts and parked where we had a good view of the mountain and took too many photographs! The road to the Fifth Station, another 1,000 mts higher, was still closed and hasn't re-opened since winter. The trees are still bare up here and not much greenery at all.

Lunch was at the Fujinomori Golf Club where there were several local car enthusiasts taking lots of photos of the rally cars. They were very interested in the roadbook as I was marking it up.

After lunch it was a 7km drive to the APG Circuit for a quick run around the track, four laps and finish on the fifth. Gerry, Colin and Marco were ahead of us so it was a very fast run. The bogey time was 3mins 30 secs. We did it in 5mins and 5 secs.

After leaving this circuit we passed by the Fuji Formula 1 Circuit and there was also a Fuji Speedway in this area.

Both regularities were cancelled this afternoon due to problems on the intended roads, roadworks, quarry works.

Then it was a fast run into Tokyo, a lot of it on Expressways. Navigators had to be alert as there are so many exits on these motorways.

We got to the last toll gate and drove to a green light booth. Despite the green light, it was only for vehicles with electronic tags. We couldn't reverse as there was a long line of traffic behind us and there was no attendant. Fortunately we were able to get by/around the barrier as the car is so small. 

Expect we'll see the police sometime soon!

Very nice hotel in the Hibiya area, close to the Imperial Palace.

 Tomorrow is a rest day.