A Refreshing 100-Mile Ride Through the Green Foothills of the Japanese Alps
— Azumino Century Ride 2026 (Part 2) —
Continuing from Part 1, here’s the second half of our ride at the Alps Azumino Century Ride 2026, held this May. This time, the return journey from Hakuba features one of the event’s most popular attractions—the Cycle Train. It’s a route that’s sure to delight not only cyclists, but railway enthusiasts as well.
Text&Photos_Eigo Shimojo
Table of Contents
4. 65 km → 111 km: Cycle Train / JR Hakuba Station → JR Shinano-Oiwake Station
5. 120 km: Finish / National Alps Azumino Park (Horigane–Hotaka Area)
4. 65 km → 111 km: Cycle Train / JR Hakuba Station → JR Shinano-Oiwake Station
Having ridden about 65 km from the start, I was already more than satisfied. Between the spectacular scenery and the generous local food, the ride had exceeded every expectation. I even felt like I had enough energy to pedal all the way back—but this time, enjoying the Cycle Train was part of the mission.
After a short ride from the Hakuba Aid Station, I arrived at JR Hakuba Station. Watching the riders continuing along the return route disappear into the distance, I couldn’t help feeling a slight sense of guilt… or perhaps smug satisfaction. Maybe a little of both!
At the station, event staff guided us through the boarding process. After giving our bikes a quick wipe-down, we were able to roll them straight through the ticket gates—no need to remove the wheels or pack them into bike bags. Reaching the platform, I was surprised to find plenty of fellow participants already waiting, instantly washing away any lingering feelings of “cheating.”
Before long, the special event train pulled into the station, and boarding began with bicycles intact. The staff carefully secured each bike in place, making the process both easy and reassuring. With some time to spare before departure, everyone relaxed in their own way, enjoying this rare chance to travel by train with their bicycles.
With both riders and bicycles safely on board, the train departed Hakuba Station right on schedule. The journey to Shinano-Oiwake Station, the final stop, takes about an hour.
As the train rolls south toward Azumino, the scenery outside the window feels like the morning’s ride playing in reverse. Fresh spring greenery, quiet villages, and distant mountain ranges drift past in a soothing panorama. The gentle rocking of the train lulls a few passengers into a light nap, while others simply gaze out the window, taking in the peaceful landscape.
Before long, we’re back in Azumino. Stepping onto the platform of the station’s charming old building, I thank the station master—smartly dressed in full uniform—for warmly welcoming the riders. From there, it’s just a short ride to the final AACR aid station, conveniently located near the station.
The final aid station serves a fitting celebration of Shinshu’s local flavors: fresh Azumino apple juice, wasabi-infused cheese, a Shinshu apple energy gel, and, as the centerpiece, a sekihan manju specially steamed for the AACR by a long-established local confectionery.
With four different items on offer, it feels like a proper finale rather than just another refueling stop.
What left the strongest impression wasn’t only the food itself, but the atmosphere. Riders gathered in small circles on the lawn, chatting as they savored each item one by one, reluctant for their 100-mile journey to come to an end. It was a scene that perfectly captured what the AACR is all about—not racing against the clock, but sharing good food, good company, and unforgettable memories along the way.
5. 120 km: Finish / National Alps Azumino Park (Horigane–Hotaka Area)
With the finish line now just around the corner, the spacious lawn at the final aid station has become a place to linger rather than hurry on. Riders sit together in circles, stretch out on the grass, or simply relax, reluctant to let their 100-mile journey come to an end. The courtyard is filled with the quiet satisfaction of participants savoring the last moments of the ride.
With just 8 km remaining to the finish, I decided to ride the final stretch with purpose rather than linger any longer. Leaving the aid station behind, I tackled the steady climb toward the foothills of Mt. Jonen—a deceptively tough ascent that demanded one last effort from already tired legs.
Along the way, I caught up to a fast-moving group of international riders taking powerful turns at the front. Tucking into the slipstream at the back of the paceline, I hung on as best I could, digging deep and turning the pedals until the very end.
Then, at last—the finish line.
The AACR’s legendary hospitality doesn’t end at the finish line. The final reward awaiting riders is a generous serving of karashi inari—three pieces of this beloved Shinshu specialty.
A longtime local favorite, especially in the Matsumoto region, karashi inari features vinegared rice wrapped in sweet, seasoned fried tofu, topped with a surprisingly bold amount of Japanese mustard. The sharp kick is stronger than you might expect—but somehow, it’s irresistibly addictive.
After all, there’s only a fine line between “karai” (spicy) and “tsurai” (tough).
Nearby, an elementary school-aged boy who had just crossed the finish line with his father pumps his fist in triumph before taking a big bite of the inari. Moments later, tears well up in his eyes. Surely, not all of them are from the joy of finishing.
After fully experiencing everything the AACR had to offer, the day came to a satisfying close.
Looking back, it was remarkable how I had been able to enjoy some of Japan’s finest cycling destinations—the Matsumoto Basin, Azumino, and Hakuba—all in one unforgettable ride, yet never felt rushed or pressured. The carefully designed route, well-positioned aid stations, and generous time limits must be what allow riders to create their own style of adventure. It was a true testament to the skillful event planning behind AACR.
In fact, cyclists of all kinds were enjoying the day in their own way: serious riders chasing performance, families and friends joining for a relaxed fun ride, and beginners taking on their first long-distance challenge.
Another thing that stood out was the incredible variety of bicycles on course. Road bikes, gravel bikes, folding bikes, mountain bikes, city bikes, and even track bikes could all be seen. AACR embraces this diversity with an open and welcoming spirit. The fact that a Cycle Train is available even on a 100-mile event perfectly represents the freedom and variety of cycling experiences that AACR aims to offer.
And above all—the food was simply outstanding!
Ride hard, have fun, and eat well.
It is rare to find a 100-mile event that delivers all three so perfectly.
Without a doubt, the Alps Azumino Century Ride is a century ride every cyclist should experience at least once.
Profile
Eigo Shimojo
Born in Nagano Prefecture in 1974
Belongs to IPU Japan Photographers Union
He became independent in 2000 as a freelancer and established Greenhouse Studio, which handles a wide range of photography and video production.
His life’s work is pursuing underground HIPHOP and bicycle culture around the world.