Likewise, this paddy scene could be anywhere in Japan - except for the megalopolis stretching in the distance that can be glimpsed in places. This relatively lowland section is also relatively brief: soon the road heads upward in earnest.

Although there are a couple of turns before the top, they are very well marked. This is one; miss this left turn (just beyond the bend) and you will find yourself heading over the ridge northward to Sanda and eventually to the Japan Sea.