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By now, we have adjusted our ideas about tunnels. They are not nearly as dramatic as I had imagined. I was very apprehensive about them, the infamous, kilometres-long, dark and narrow Japanese tunnels without a cycle lane, but nothing could be further from the truth. The longest up to now was nearly 2 km., they’re reasonably well lit and, most importantly, there are wide, elevated paths for cyclists and pedestrians. These are sometimes missing in the smaller tunnels, but are then so well lit that you are easily visible for motorists. When in doubt, we put on yellow fluorescent vests, but they stay in our bags most of the time.
And to be honest, I’m glad to see them. Better than climbing over the top.
