*This page contains a promotion in collaboration with Jetstar Airways. In September 2025, our editorial team headed to Cairns in Queensland, Australia. The purpose? To take part in the “Port Douglas Gran Fondo” ride-and-run event (https://portdouglasgranfondo.com.au/). Now in its fourth year, the highlight of this event is undoubtedly its stunning highway route that runs along the Pacific coast—home to the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef. In this series, we’ll bring you a three-part story of cycling in Cairns—before, during, and after the event—featuring the exclusive highway ride, the vast natural beauty of Queensland, fresh local cuisine, and fascinating historical landm […]

To everyone still basking in the afterglow of the Honolulu Century Ride (HCR), and to those cyclists who couldn’t join this year—this month we bring you a special series of first-hand ride journals written by the participants themselves. Five groups of riders, each crossing the finish line in their own style, share their experiences of the HCR along with stories from the days they spent in Honolulu before and after the event. How did they make the most of their stay? What did they eat, see, and feel throughout their trip? The first story comes from Naohiko Matsumoto, who is approaching seventy and has completed the HCR 100-mile course—160 km—seven times.A former classmate and long-time frien […]

While Japan has been enduring days of heat that feel hotter than midsummer, far to the west on the European continent, France too is under an intense heatwave. And just recently, the grand festival no cycling lover can ignore — the Tour de France — had been in full swing there. Watching the riders circle the country under the blazing summer sun, who wouldn’t feel the urge to ride in France themselves? However, the vast farmlands blooming with sunflowers are scorching, and the legendary Mont Ventoux is known as “The Mountain of Death.” For beginners, such rides may seem a bit too demanding. Yet, there’s no need to give up so soon — France is full of cycling routes made for leisurely rides. Am […]

Are you familiar with “Rail Trails”?A Rail Trail is a path developed on the former tracks of disused railways, designed for cycling, walking, jogging, horseback riding, and other recreational activities. There are said to be thousands of such trails worldwide, particularly in Europe and North America. In Japan, a few examples exist, such as the remnants of the Ioki Forest Railway that once ran between Tokushima and Kochi Prefectures. However, their number and length are nothing compared to those in Western countries, where railways played a major role in opening up the land. The concept of Rail Trails began in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. Following World War II, as air travel ex […]

The Tour de France, a 23-day journey that circles France by bike in the peak of summer, is finally heading into its decisive final stages. This is the second part of a two-part series reporting on cycling in France directly from the ground. This time, we dive into a hands-on investigation of renting a performance road bike—seriously planning as if we were going to ride ourselves.Is it easy and reliable to arrange a rental? How much does it actually cost? And what should you keep in mind if you really end up riding in France? The route I planned is the finish of Stage 16: Mont Ventoux. There’s no doubt this mountain will play a major role in determining the overall winner. Let’s take on this […]

The Tour de France, a race that circles around France by bicycle over the course of 23 days in the peak of summer, is in full swing from July 5 to 27. The country and people that gave rise to such a grand sporting event share a deep love for cycling. In recent years, France has rapidly developed cycling infrastructure to promote eco-friendly transportation. As one of the world’s top tourist destinations, the nation is now fully committed to advancing cycle tourism. A journalist with 30 years of experience covering the Tour de France witnesses this dedication firsthand. In this two-part series, Part 1 offers a preview of the 2025 Tour de France and essential tips for cycling in France. Table […]

When cycling in France, let’s consider what arrangements are needed locally and how to plan your trip. You have two options: bring your own bike or rent one on-site. Table of Contents 1. Tips for Checking Your Bike on International Flights2. Renting a Quality Bicycle in France 1. Tips for Checking Your Bike on International Flights First, consider the case of bringing your bike on the plane to France. I asked Action Sports Corp, a company that handles the “Bike Porter” bike transport cases for airlines, about the latest situation. Q: What size bikes can be checked on international flights? Is it free or are there additional fees? A: Policies vary depending on the airline for international fl […]

As early summer vibes start to make their way across Japan, I can’t help but think of Hawaii—especially after covering the Honolulu Century Ride.There’s just something about that place… Don’t you think Hawaii has a way of resetting you, just by being there? Sure, fancy restaurants and lively shopping can be fun, but one of Hawaii’s greatest charms is how simply spending a day there can lift your spirits and make you feel light and free. That said, I want to hike up mountains, swim in the ocean, go on a fun ride, and eat at delicious restaurants too.I mean, it is Hawaii, after all! (Can’t have it both ways, huh?) Registration is now open for the Honolulu Century Ride, which takes you through […]