TOPICS
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FEATURE
Let's head to trendy cycling spots to enjoy Japan.
Feeling the breeze of the Seto Inland Sea.~Cycling paradise extending from the Shimanami Kaido.~
#03 Castles and Onsens and craft beer, Oh my!
Bicycle ride through Ehime culture that continues from Shimanami Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido isn’t the only bike route in Ehime for serious cyclists and bicycling explorers alike. This weekend we venture south from the entrance to the most famous biking route of the prefecture, in the city of Imabari, to the capital of Matsuyama, ending at the oldest bath house in Japan and possibly the most famous in the world. This route is called the Imabari-Dogo Hamakaze (Sea Breeze) Cycling Road.Although this course is mostly utilitarian, with views of the coast for only about half the way, it is a vital path between many great historical sites, quaint and quirky lunch spots and a good night on the town. Table of Contents 1. Scouting Expedition and Imabari Castle 2. Lunch a […]
Navigated by Jeremy from the U.S
#02 Getting Your Feet Wet in Ehime with the Shimanami Kaido
When it comes to cycling across Japan, Ehime prefecture should be part of anybody’s bucket list. From mountain to inland sea, there is plenty to see and do while cruising along one of the multitudes of well-planned routes crisscrossing the island of Shikoku’s northwestern side. First let’s take a ride through one of the most sought-after destinations for cyclists across the world over, the Shimanami Kaido. For hardcore folk, the entire ride is about 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) but for the purposes of this article we’ll only be going as far as the border to Hiroshima prefecture on the Honshu-side of the Setouchi sea, split between two relatively leisurely afternoons. Table of Contents 1 […]
#01 The sea breeze, mountains and more! 11 bike routes you can fully enjoy through the nature of Ehime.
Have you ever been to Ehime Prefecture? It’s a place known as a cycling paradise. Ehime is blessed with a mild climate overlooking the Seto Inland Sea with a rich natural environment. There are many cycling routes, through sea and mountain, including the Shimanami Kaido, which was selected by CNN as one of the seven best cycling routes in the world. Ehime Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of Shikoku on the Seto Inland Sea side and has the largest population of the four prefectures in Shikoku. It is famous for its production of “mikan” oranges and is surrounded by nature, both ocean and mountain. There are also many historical sites such as Matsuyama Castle and Dogo H […]
Meet the gods of Japan~Cycling through sacred shrine areas~
Cherry Blossoms and Architecture in Northern Honshu, Aomori
Aomori Prefecture, located at the northernmost tip of Honshu(the main island of Japan), offers food of the sea and mountains, and rich nature throughout the year. Its cherry blossom spots come alive in spring. This cherry blossom ride explores Hirosaki City, a castle town that flourished since the Edo period. Enjoy the cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle, soothe your soul, and conclude the ride at the 800-year-old Owani Onsen for a relaxing finale. Indulge in the rich culinary offerings of spring in Aomori, from fruits and vegetables to seafood. Embark on a journey through spring in Aomori, where nature, culture, and cuisine blend harmoniously. Table of Contents 1. Starting from Aomori Airpo […]
Circumnavigating the sacred mountains of the gods.
In Japan, there are numerous shrines and temples. Among them, Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture holds significant importance. This time, we will introduce a route of about 20 kilometers that revolves around Ise Grand Shrine, deeply intertwined with history and culture. Starting from Chubu Centrair International Airport, we’ll cross to Mie Prefecture by ferry, pass through Ise Grand Shrine, and reach the goal at Toba Station. Ise is often called the Land of the Gods. Along the way, you’ll encounter several torii gates. Torii gates signify the boundary between the world of gods and humans. When passing through a torii gate, stop just before and bow in reverence. Now, let’s e […]
“Cherry blossoms” symbolize spring in Japan, displaying various expressions by the sea, in the mountains, and throughout the cities. Introducing a cycling course to enjoy the cherry blossoms, starting with Matsushima, one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Spots in Miyagi Prefecture. Departing from Sendai Airport, the goal is Zuiganji, a national treasure. It’s about a 50-kilometer journey along the coast. We look forward to seeing what colors the cherry blossoms will paint in Matsushima. And of course, there will be delicious food to enjoy as well!
EVENT
To fully enjoy fan ride events. Real reports from preparation to the day of the event are available here.
WORLD
The bicycle road race that began in 1903 started with a simple rule: cyclists would ride around France, and the first to reach the finish line in Paris in the shortest time would win. The route was later changed to include the Pyrenees Mountains, adding more drama. Today, it has become the world's largest bicycle race, spanning 23 days and covering a total distance of approximately 3,500 km. About 20 teams, each composed of 8 riders, participate. The rider with the best overall individual time wears the yellow jersey, known as the 'maillot jaune.' There are two types of victories: the overall victory, based on the total time over the entire period, and the stage victories, determined by the best time each day.
Hawaii's largest cycling event, held since 1981. Starting from Kapiolani Park and looping back at Swanzy Beach Park beyond Kualoa for a 100-mile (approximately 160 km) fun ride course. There are also enjoyable routes of 25 miles (about 40 km), 50 miles (about 80 km), and 75 miles (about 120 km) suitable for beginners and children. Along the way, riders are surrounded by endless blue skies and seas, passing through scenic spots like Makapuu Lookout, Kaneohe Bay Drive, and Kamehameha Highway, and encountering Hawaii's pristine landscapes, such as Waimanalo, known as paradise's gift.
North America's largest fan ride event with over 30,000 riders participating. Starting from New York Manhattan, the route passes through 6th Avenue, Central Park, the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn, before reaching the festival venue at Staten Island. The approximately 40-mile (64 km) course offers minimal elevation changes and ample aid stations. It's an event where even beginners can thoroughly enjoy riding through the refreshing May streets of New York City with a sense of urban adventure.
The main event fan ride of the "Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival" held in Cairns, Queensland, Australia. The course consists of four options: 48km, 60km, 100km, and 138km. Even the 100km course has a very gentle elevation gain of 689m, suitable for intermediate riders. Riders start at Port Douglas, ride along the Great Barrier Reef Drive to Palm Cove, then return to Port Douglas for the finish line. The scenic road, lined with palm trees along the coast, is fully closed to riders. This event allows cyclists to ride through the course passing the "Great Barrier Reef," recognized as a World Heritage Site, and the "Queensland Wet Tropics," the world's oldest tropical rainforest, while enjoying the refreshing breeze.
Australia's most famous fan ride event. The approximately 100km course rides from Brisbane, Queensland, to the Gold Coast. With over 4,000 participants, it's beloved by both Aussies and long-distance ride enthusiasts. Starting from Brisbane's South Bank, the route includes a 16km stretch of normally bus-exclusive highway that is transformed into a bike-only road for the event, adding to its popularity. Featuring vast grasslands and coastal cycling routes as far as the eye can see, the course is known for its minimal elevation changes, making it enjoyable for riders of all levels. Surrounded by cheerful and welcoming Aussie cyclists, it's impossible not to smile while taking part in this event, offering a true taste of Australia.
One of the main events of the "BRISBANE CYCLING FESTIVAL" held in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The festival, which takes place during autumn from March to April, features cycling-related events held almost daily. The "Tour de Brisbane" is one of its main events. During the festival, roads like the Legacy Tunnel, typically for vehicles only, and the South East Busway, reserved for buses, are completely closed off, allowing cyclists to comfortably enjoy a 110km ride.
JAPAN
The Japanese Odyssey is an ultra-distance cycling event founded in 2015 by two French cyclists, Emmanuel and Guillaume. Held irregularly at a pace of once a year, the event features a different course each year, spanning 3,000 to 4,000 km across Japan with mountain passes and unpaved trails. Except for the designated start, finish, and 15 checkpoints, participants are free to choose their route but must complete it within 12 days using GPS and maps. Despite its grueling nature, the event sees an increasing number of participants from around the world each year. Registration is available on the official website. https://www.japanese-odyssey.com/
A fan ride event held in the Tsumari area of Niigata Prefecture (Tokamachi City and Tsunan Town) since 2006. This event originated from a cycling event conceptualized and planned by architect Yoshitaki Ito as part of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, a modern art festival held once every three years in this region. It doubles as an art tour where participants can enjoy the beautiful rural landscapes, art installations, and architectural works while cycling. However, as it involves cycling through mountainous terrain akin to hill climbing, the elevation gain exceeds 400 meters, and the course features intense ups and downs. Participation has been increasing annually, with riders looking forward to local specialties such as soba noodles, onigiri rice balls, tomatoes, and pickles served at aid stations.
A UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) sanctioned road race held around Niseko in Hokkaido, Japan, featuring distances and age categories. Consisting of two courses, 150km and 85km, with a time trial race included. Participants who place highly in this event earn eligibility to compete in the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. The breathtaking natural scenery of Hokkaido provides a high-speed backdrop for participants, supported by enthusiastic spectators.
A cycling event that circumnavigates Mount Yotei, the symbol of southern Hokkaido. The 60km course features a variety of points of interest, including endless roads and undulating hills, making it quite appealing. It is held as a pre-event for the Niseko Classic.
CULTURE
Interesting even if you don't ride! Various bicycle-related cultures.
Domestic Japan Edition #02
Domestic Japan Edition #01
Where do New Yorkers buy cycling gear?
Kraftwerk
Tour de France
#07 Kazuyuki Yamaguchi
Tank and the Bangas “Smoke.Netflix.Chill.”
Searching for the remnants of Edo’s oldtown legend, Hokusai. (Part 3)
#06 Miho Ishigaki
TRIP&TRAVEL
Going everywhere by bicycles. To local rides to experience the charm of the land
Australia's third-largest city, following Sydney and Melbourne. Cycling routes are well-developed, and several major cycling events are held here.
ENTRY
Sign up for Fun Ride events worldwide from here.
Date: 2024.5.5 Sun
Location: USA / New York
Entry Period: Entry closed
Date: 2024.9.29 Sun
Location: USA / Honolulu
Entry Period: Now accepting registrations.
Date: 2024.9.8 Sun
Location: AUSTRALIA / Port Douglas
Entry Period: Entry closed