Touring Hokkaido by bicycleinbound-jp.info/wp-content/pdf/hokkaido_cycketourismguide_en.pdfTouring Hokkaido by bicycle Cycle Tourism Hokkaido Promotion Network The Cycle Tourism Hokkaido

Touring Hokkaido by bicycle

Cycle Tourism Hokkaido Promotion Network

The Cycle Tourism Hokkaido Promotion Network was established by 44 companies and organizations in the public and private sectors, including the Federation of Hokkaido Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Sapporo Chamber of Commerce and Industry.This guidebook, based on the Japanese version, was translated/produced as part of the Hokkaido Development and Planning Survey (Hokkaido Regional Development Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).

Cycle Tourism Hokkaido Promotion Network

Introducing a total of 20 courses in 8 areas of Hokkaido

Bicycle transportation informationHotels that can provide bicycle storage

The Five Safety Codes for Riding BicyclesIn emergencyThings to remember when cycling in Hokkaido

Model course in Central Hokkaido [New Chitose Airport – Sapporo]Hokkaido Resort Ride

Model course in Eastern Hokkaido [Memanbetsu – Memanbetsu]Hokkaido Scenic Ride

Model course in Kamikawa/Tokachi [Asahikawa – Obihiro]Hokkaido Great Nature Ride

Sapporo area

Furano/Biei area

Asahikawa area

Tokachi area

Mashu area

Sorachi area

Hokumo area

Niseko area

List of bicycle races and events in Hokkaido

Hokkaido – a cyclist’s paradise with world-class locationsHokkaido attracts cyclists from both home and abroad with its pleasant climate and comfortable cycling environment in which even minor farm roads are paved.After cycling amid the beautiful scenery of this expansive land, enjoy the delicious cuisine, hot-spring baths and limitless fun to be found at amazing locations along the way.

What to wear on the road according to the month and temperatureBasic information and climate

Introducing a total of 20 courses in 8 areas of Hokkaido

Asahikawa area Hokumo area

Mashu area

Tokachi area

Furano/Biei area

Sorachi area

Sapporo area

Sapporo area Furano/Biei area

Niseko area

A variety of courses on which to ride in this cyclist’s paradise

Three courses: a course popular among locals of Sapporo, a large metropolis with a population of 1.9 million; a ride along the back roads to scenic views of the Sea of Japan; and a long ride through surrounding rural areas.

Four courses: two courses to enjoy lavenders in Furano and the Patchwork Hills of Biei, a course up the Sorachi River toward Lake Kanayama, and a hill-climb course up Mt. Tokachi, for experienced cyclists.

Asahikawa area

Two courses along the riverbanks all the way to Mt. Asahi and other Taisetsu mountains. Features along the courses include gardens, abundant spring water and Asahiyama Zoo.

Mashu area

A course that starts from the Kawayu hot-spring resort and takes in Lake Mashu, known for having the clearest water in Japan, and Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, as well as offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Sorachi area

Two courses: one on which to enjoy the rural scenery and a variety of wineries, and a long-ride course for experienced cyclists to take in scenic rural areas, flower gardens, industrial heritages and works of art.

Hokumo area

Four short courses, including one that takes in the beautiful hills and rural areas along the Okhotsk coast, and a course from which to enjoy the natural flower meadows around Lake Tofutsu, a designated Ramsar Site.

Niseko area

Niseko, which has become a world-class winter resort, is also a favorite destination for cyclists. This area has a course on which to enjoy an exhilarating ride while enjoying views of Mt. Yotei, which is also known as Ezo Fuji (Hokkaido’s Mt. Fuji).

Tokachi area

Three courses: a course down a mountain pass to enjoy the panoramic views and lakes, a tour of unique gardens while cycling through the vast plain that stretches to the horizon, and a course that enables beginners to visit some scenic spots along the Tokachi River.

What to wear on the road according to the month and temperatureTo cycle comfortably in Hokkaido’s natural environment!

Wear proper w

inter gear when cycling

in Hokkaido in early spring or late autum

n!

Protect yourself against the cold even in spring and autum

n, as it gets quite cold in the m

ornings and evenings!

A certain am

ount of protection against the cold is recom

mended even in the best season

in early summ

er!

Cycling can be enjoyed in com

fort as even m

id-summ

er is free from extrem

e heat!

Hokkaido’s climate differs from that of Tokyo, Osaka and other parts of Japan. Protect yourself against the cold by wearing a thick long-sleeved jacket and tights.

Fully protect extremities particularly susceptible to the cold by wearing winter gloves, shoe covers and a face cover.

In the mornings and evenings, it may be necessary to wear a windbreaker or gilet in addition to a long-sleeved jersey and leg warmers.

Take compact full-finger gloves and shoe covers to prepare for the cold.

A short-sleeved jersey may be sufficient, but functional underwear and arm warmers will make the trip more comfortable.

You’ll be fully prepared by taking leg warmers and a windbreaker.

Hokkaido’s weather is dry and pleasant even in mid-summer. A short-sleeved jersey and moisture-absorb-ing, quick-drying underwear should be sufficient.

Take a gilet and arm warmers as a precaution for the cold in the shade and tunnels.

Monthly mean temperatures in major cities

Mean temperature Sapporo Asahikawa Kushiro

June

July

AugustSource: Japan Meteorological Agency’s Climate Statistics

Checklist of what to take

Basic equipment

Additional items that may come in handy

Camera

Wire lock

Disposable body warmers

Plastic zipper bags

Shoes

Set of portable tools

Pump

Mobile phone

Map

Basic information and climate

Basic Hokkaido data

Climate of major cities

Prefectural capital: Sapporo / Population: 5.49 million / Area: 83,457 km2 (39.7 times the area of Tokyo)

Annual mean temperature Annual precipitation Annual hours of sunlight

hourshours

hourshours

Sapporo

Asahikawa

Kushiro

Tokyo

Sapporo

Asahikawa

Kushiro

Tokyo

Sapporo

Asahikawa

Kushiro

Tokyo

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency’s Climate Statistics

Helmet

Bottle

Spare tubes

Puncture repair kit

Lights (incl. reflectors)

Health insurance

Eyewear

Supplementary food

Tire lever

Rainwear (windbreaker)

Bell

First-aid kit (adhesive plasters, antiseptic spray, etc.)

Cycle computer

Insect repellent spray

Batteries (alkaline, button)

GPS

Sunscreen

Vinyl tape

The Five Safety Codes for Riding Bicycles

Drinking and driving / Riding Double / Paralleled Riding are prohibited.

Turn on your light at night.

At crossroads, follow the traffic lights, or stop and confirm the safety around you where there is no traffic light.

However, if there is a signboard on the sidewalk saying ‘bicycles allowed' you can use it.

When cycling on the sidewalk use the side close to the car street.

When someone above sixteen yeas old is carrying a child below six on the child seat, the child must wear a helmet.Thirteen years old children and below should wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.

Things to remember when cycling in Hokkaido

In cool Hokkaido, temperatures may drop sharply in early evenings or in rainy weather. Always leave enough leeway in the schedule as the sun sets early in some seasons.

Temperatures may drop in the mornings and evenings and on high mountain passes, even in summer.

Although riding on prefectural back roads and regional agricultural roads is one of the attractions of cycling in Hokkaido, it is not easy without a guide. Watch out for traffic especially when you are on highways.

Hokkaido is home to a wide variety of wild animals, including deer and red fox. You should not touch or feed red foxes as they may carry a parasite called echinococcus.

Danger actually lurks even in encounters with cute wild animals.

“Stay on the Roadway” Bicycles are required to stay on the roadway by law. However, they are allowed to travel on sidewalks under some circumstances. Please see below for details.

“Keep Left” on the roadway

When riding on the sidewalks, “Pedestrians have Priority”, “Slow Down” and “Stay on the edge close to the roadway.

Follow the “Safety Rules”.

Children must wear “Bicycle Helmets”.

Ride on the left, never on the right side of the street.When cycling on the sidewalk use the side close to the car street.

In emergency

"110" is the telephone number to use in emergencies to report incidents quickly to the police.In emergency, please remain calm and report the following accurately.

EMERGENCY CALLS: "DIAL 110"

Type of incident ( traffic accident, fight, robbery )Time and place, including landmarksNature of incident, including injured persons, features of incidentThe number of suspects, suspect's features, suspect's escape routeYour name, address, phone number, your role in the incident

In some rural areas, there are no convenience stores, vending machines or even toilets for tens of kilometers. Careful planning is necessary, as many areas are also outside the range of mobile phones.

It is often necessary to travel tens of kilometers to get supplies once you leave an urban area.

Traffic on national highways may be heavy and there are many large vehicles on major trunk roads.

*Japanese only.

This portal site for cyclists features a pamphlet library from which pamphlets of different areas can be down-loaded, a map of Hokkaido showing cycle rack locations and hotels that can provide bicycle storage, and a list of cycle shops in each area.

Hokkaido Cycle Tourism official website

Packed with courses in all eight areas of Hokkaido!

Hokkaido Cycle Tourism SearchSearch

Bicycle transportation information

Rinko (carrying bicycles on public transport)

Many airlines accept bicycles as checked baggage if the weight of the bicycle is no more than 20 kg and the combined length + width + depth measures no more than 203 cm. As the charges may vary, it is recommended to contact the airline in advance.

LCCs

Most low-cost carriers (LCCs) that offer cheaper ticket prices charge additional fees for baggage. Bicycles must be carried in special cases or protective cases made of cardboard or other durable materials. Be sure to book in advance as baggage that has not been booked may not be accepted when checking-in.

JR trains

Up to two pieces of specialist baggage can be carried onto trains if the weight of each bag is no more than 30 kg and the combined length + width + depth measures no more than 250 cm (the longest side being no more than 2 m). Baggage satisfying these conditions can be carried onto trains free of charge.

Hotels that can provide bicycle storage

Sapporo area

Furano/Biei area

Niseko area

An important point to remember is to contact accommodation facilities in advance, to obtain consent, as accommodation facilities may refuse to receive or store expensive bicycles.

Toyoko Inn Hokkaido Sapporo Susukino Minami (Tel. 011 551 1045)Sapporo Tokyu Inn (Tel. 011 531 0109)HOTEL PACO Jr. Susukino (Tel. 011 512 8512)Excel Hotel Tokyu (Tel. 011 533 0109)Sapporo Tobu Hotel (Tel. 011 242 0111)Pension Setsurin (Tel. 011 822 7123)Hotel Sapporo Garden Palace (Tel. 011 261 5311)Mercure Sapporo (Tel. 011 513 1100)Sapporo Aspen Hotel (Tel. 011 700 2111)Sheraton Sapporo Hotel (Tel. 011 895 8811)New Otani Inn Sapporo (Tel. 011 222 1111)Hotel Clubby Sapporo (Tel. 011 242 1111)Renaissance Sapporo Hotel (Tel. 011 821 1111)Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo (Tel. 011 271 0111)Tokyo Dome Hotel Sapporo (Tel. 011 261 0111)Century Royal Hotel (Tel. 011 221 3009)Royton Sapporo (Tel. 011 271 2711)Sapporo Grand Hotel (Tel. 011 261 3311)

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu (Tel. 0167 58 1111)Shimukappu Yunosawaonsen Mori-no-shiki (Tel. 0167 56 2311)Pension Ing Tomamu (Tel. 0167 57 2341)Farm In Nora (Tel. 0167 56 2685)Hotel Naturwald Furano (Tel. 0167 22 1211)Inn Akiba (Tel. 0167 22 3205)Pension Hoshi-ni-negaiwo (Tel. 0167 23 1275)Hoshi-no-Yado Sorairo-no-tane (Tel. 0167 22 4758)Tsuru Apartments (Tel. 0167 23 1618)Hotel Edel Warme (Tel. 0167 22 1161)Inn Furusatoso (Tel. 0167 22 2612)Pension Lavender (Tel. 0167 23 1077)Alpen Inn Phenix (Tel. 0167 23 3564)Inn Daramsara (Tel. 0167 28 2247)Kita-no-yado Mone (Tel. 0167 22 4247)Cosmos Fram (Tel. 0167 45 4995)Tokachidake Onsen Kamihoro inn (Tel. 0167 45 2970)Furano Hops Hotel (Tel. 0167 45 6511)Daichi-no-yado Jyoya (Tel. 0167 45 3267)Woody Life (Tel. 0167 45 6810)Pension Baku (Tel. 0166 95 2333)Yumoto Shirogane Onsen Hotel (Tel. 0166 94 3333)To-no-mieru-yado Okasenri (Tel. 0166 95 2161)Potato Village Biei Potato-no-oka (Tel. 0166 92 3255)Hotel Lavenir (Tel. 0166 92 5555)Pension Tomte rum (Tel. 0166 92 5567)The farm holiday cottage (Tel. 0166 92 5800)Inn Takikawa (Tel. 0166 92 3448)Himitsu Kichi (Tel. 0166 68 6551)Petit Hotel Pie (Tel. 0166 92 1200)Pension TRADINGPOST (Tel. 0166 92 5005)Chiichana-oyado Konpeiso (Tel. 0166 92 5971)Biei Tabi-no-yado Hidamari (Tel. 0166 92 5521)Natsumi-no-sato (Tel. 0166 92 2773)Oka-no-yado KOERU (Tel. 0166 92 5532)Kunsthaus (Tel. 0166 92 0770)Hotel Park Hills (Tel. 0166 94 3041)

Pension Berg (Tel. 0136 22 5115)Niseko Gurigura (Tel. 0136 22 6934)PENSION LOCOMOTION (Tel. 0136 22 6045)Yutaka Townhouse (Tel. 0136 22 4611)Toshokan (Tel. 0136 22 4611)Sulu (Tel. 0136 22 4611)NISEKO SHIROKUMA COTAGE (Tel. 0136 22 4611)Neyuki (Tel. 0136 22 4611)Ezoyume (Tel. 0136 22 4611)HT Holidays (Tel. 0136 23 3503)Lodge Fuu (Tel. 0136 22 0620)Snow Gum Lodge (Tel. 0136 21 5088)RAMAT NISEKO (Tel. 0136 21 5088)OWASHI LODGE (Tel. 0136 55 5111)Alberta Lodge (Tel. 0136 23 3688)HOTEL NISEKO ALPEN (Tel. 0136 22 1105)Lodge Koropokkuru (Tel. 0136 22 1736)Lodge Grand Papa (Tel. 0136 23 2244)the chalets at country resort (Tel. 0136 55 5122)Bouken Kazoku (Tel. 0136 22 3759)NISEKO MANAGEMENT SERVICE (Tel. 0136 21 7788)Pension ISLAND (Tel. 0136 23 4322)CHALET IVY A NISEKO HOTEL (Tel. 0136 22 1123)Pension Amondans (Tel. 0136 59 2600)Yugokoro-tei (Tel. 0136 58 2500)Pension Cotton Farm (Tel. 0136 58 2227)Natural Resort Niseko Weiss Hotel (Tel. 0136 23 3311)NISEKO IZUMIKYO (Tel. 0136 23 3301)NISEKO Auberge de FRYINGPAN (Tel. 0136 58 2932)RUSUTSU RESORT (Tel. 0136 46 3111)

Asahikawa areaHotel Crescent Asahikawa (Tel. 0166 27 1111)HOTEL PACO Asahikawa (Tel. 0166 23 8585)Court Hotel Asahikawa (Tel. 0166 26 0510)Toyoko Inn Hokkaido Asahikawa Ekimae iyashita-dori (Tel. 0166 25 2045)Fujita Kanko Washington Hotel Asahikawa (Tel. 0166 23 7111)Loisir Hotel Asahikawa (Tel. 0166 25 8811)Asahikawa Grand Hotel (Tel. 0166 24 2111)

Tokachi areaHotel Daiheigen (Tel. 0155 46 2121)Kangetsuen (Tel. 0155 46 2001)Hotel Kounan (Tel. 0155 23 7353)Sasai Hotel (Tel. 0155 46 2211)Resort and Villa Feriendorf (Tel. 0155 68 3301)Tokachi Makiba-no-ie (Tel. 015- 72 6000)Tokachi Makubetsu onsen Grandvrio Hotel (Tel. 0155 56 2121)Hokkaido Hotel (Tel. 0155 21 0001)JR Hokkaido Hotels Hotel Nikko Northland Obihiro (Tel. 0155 24 1234)Tokachi Sahoro Resort (Tel. 0156 64 7111)

Mashu area

Sorachi area

Kussharo-Genya Youth Guest House (Tel. 015 84 2609)Pure Field Kazeyoubi (Tel. 015 482 7111)Pension and Condminium Birao (Tel. 015 482 2979)Pension POLARIS (Tel. 015 482 2622)Hotel Parkway (Tel. 015 483 2616)Mashumaro (Tel. 015 482 2027)Megere Farm (Tel. 015 484 2282)Hotel Masyu (Tel. 015 482 2141)Pension New Marimo (Tel. 015 482 2414)Oyado Kageyama (Tel. 015 482 6030)Misono Hotel (Tel. 015 483 2511)Kawayu Kanko Hotel (Tel. 015 483 2121)Kinkiyu Hotel (Tel. 015 483 2211)

Bibai Hotel Suehiro (Tel. 0126 62 2501)Yu-rinkan (Tel. 0126 64 3800)Fureai Cottage (Tel. 0125 26 2000)Hotel Suehiro (Tel. 0125 22 1311)Hotel Miurakaen (Tel. 0125 22 2101)SPA & INN THE MAPLE LODGE (Tel. 0126 46 2222)HOTEL SUNPLAZA (Tel. 0126 23 7788)

Have a pleasant ride in popular central Hokkaido

Total distance: approx. 263 km / Time required: approx. 17 hr. 30 min. / Grade: intermediateStart: New Chitose Airport (Chitose) Finish: JR Sapporo Station (Sapporo) / Number of cycle-rack locations: 9

Cycling Frontier Hokkaido (Tel. 0120 963 776 ) http://www.hokkaido-cycling.jpHero Hokkaido (Tel. 0136 55 7475) http://hero-hokkaido.com

Cycle Ono Sapporo (Tel. 011 621 0501) http://www.onosapporo.jpCycle Shop Nakamura Sapporo (Tel. 011 532 9588) http://www.csnakasp.com

* Rinko (carrying bicycles on public transport) between Otaru and Sapporo

01/The changing colors of Ezo Fuji (Mt. Yotei) herald the arrival of autumn 02/ Showashinzan lava dome and the statue of Masao Mimatsu 03/ Toyako Sculpture Park by the shores of Lake Toya 04/Mt. Yotei spring water, known as kamui wakka (God’s water) 05/A natural environment that enables a pleasant ride is one of the attractions of Hokkaido. 06/Taking a break and eating soft-serve ice cream at the Yamanaka Farm.

This cycling course starts from New Chitose Airport – the aerial gateway to Hokkaido. The course winds through downtown Chitose to the cycling road that leads to Lake Shikotsu, and then around Lake Toya and on to Rusutsu, Niseko, Kiroro and other tourist spots.With many parts of the route used for races such as the Tour de Hokkaido and Iron Man Japan, the course should be satisfactory even for experi-enced cyclists. Beginners can also ride this course by effectively combining a guided tour,

public transport and other services. To be on the safe side, rinko (carrying bicycles on public trans-port) is recommended between Otaru and Sappo-ro where traffic is heavy. It is also possible to cycle from Sapporo to the Ishikari and Sorach areas.There are many hot springs and resorts, and a variety of local delicacies are available in the surrounding area. If you have a flexible sched-ule, why not make a short side trip to the Shako-tan Peninsula or other destinations.

Course guide

Cycling tourguide & Rentacycle

Rentacycle

Because of the heavy traffic between Otaru and Sapporo, rinko is recommended for less experienced cyclists concerned about safety.

Observatory commands panoramic views of Otaru. Steep descent. Take Care!

Ishikari Bay

Ishikari Bay New Port

Ishikari River

Yoichi

Otaru IC

Zenibako IC

Tobetsu

Ebetsu Higashi IC

Chitose Airport IC

KitahiroshimaKitahiroshima

Chitose ICChitose IC

TomakomaiTomakomai

Shiraoi ICShiraoi IC

Date ICDate IC

Noboribetsu Muroran ICNoboribetsu Muroran IC

NoboribetsuNoboribetsu

DateDate

MuroranMuroran

ShiraoiShiraoi

New Chitose Airport

New Chitose Airport

Mt. TarumaeMt. Tarumae

Lake ShikotsuLake Shikotsu

NakajimaNakajima

Mt. UsuMt. Usu

Lake KuttaraLake Kuttara

Mt. YoteiMt. Yotei

Mt. EniwadakeMt. Eniwadake

Mt. SapporodakeMt. Sapporodake

Akaigawa

Rusutsu

KimobetsuNiseko

Makkari

Kyogoku

Kutchan

Toyako

Sobetsu

Date

Otaru

Sapporo

Chitose

Yamanaka Farm

No convenience stores or toilets ahead

Caution! Downtown Kutchan

Long climb

Caution! Narrow road

Pleasant ride through a primeval forest

Tezukuri Kitchen Narita

Rest point

Ostrich Farm

Intersection with a national highway: beware of heavy trafficA short stretch of national highway ahead: watch out for cars

Caution! Steep climb and heavy traffic

Caution! Narrow road and many blind corners. Superb view of Lake Toya


Meisui Fukidashi Park

Yotei spring water

2nd night at Rusutsu

1st night at Kitayuzawa

3rd nightat Niseko

Uphill pass with scenic views: take rests while climbing

Area with orchards where fruit picking can be enjoyed

Caution! Heavy traffic on this section of national highway

Caution! Long tunnel (relatively light traffic)

Downtown Chitose: watch out for cars

After this point, ride on the cycling road that runs alongside the road.

Caution! Tunnel ahead

Caution! Many tunnels

Chitose

Date

Sobetsu

Toyako

Rusutsu

Makkari

Niseko

Kim

obetsuK

yogoku

Kutchan

Akaigaw

a

Otaru

Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no UtaShikotsuko Onsen, Chitose Tel. 0123 25 2211

A recommended feature of the hotel is the healthy buffet lunch that can be enjoyed in a relaxing atmosphere by the lake, surrounded by the beautiful forest. Set plans with hot-spring bathing or beauty salon treatment are also available and recom-mended for female guests. Enjoy a luxurious time after cycling.

Restaurant Maccarina Aza-Midorioka 172-3, Makkari Tel. 0136 48 2100

Kinoko Okoku (mushroom kingdom) Main Otaki Branch Sangaitaki-cho 637-1, Otaki-ku, Date Tel. 0142 68 6270

Seicomart Kutchan Kita 3-jo branchKita 3-jo Higashi 5-chome, Kutchan

Roadside station Makkari Flower CenterAza-Hikari 8-3, Makkari

Kutchan Station Kita 3-jo Nishi 4-chome, KutchanKutchan Sun Sports Land Aza-Kabayama 41-5, KutchanNiseko Goshiki Onsen Information Center Aza-Niseko 510, NisekoRankoshi Konbugawa Onsen Yusenkaku Konbu-machi 114-5, RankoshiNew Chitose Airport Bibi, Chitose

Roadside station Niseko View PlazaAza-Motomachi 77-10, Niseko

Roadside station 230 RusutsuAza-Rusutsu 127, Rusutsu

Sato no Eki Hot Kimobetsu Kimobetsu 306-3, Kimobetsu-cho Tel. 0136 55 5130

With the concept of “the restaurant of the breeze,” Maccari-na offers French-cuisine lunch courses made with local ingredients, including Makkari specialties and Yotei’s subterranean spring water. This establishment is a small country inn in a prime location with views of Mt. Yotei.

Cycle rack locations

Rest space

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Sapporo Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Sapporo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kita 1-jo Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-ku, SapporoTel. 011 231 1369 Fax. 011 222 5215 [email protected]

Check here for a more detailed road map.

To eastern Hokkaido – a paradise for cyclists

Total distance: approx. 318 km / Time required: approx. 21 hr. 10 min. / Grade: advancedStart: Memanbetsu Airport (Ozora) / Finish: Memanbetsu Airport (Ozora) Number of cycle rack locations: 17

Shiretoko Cycling Support (Tel. 0152 24 2380) http://www.shiretokocycling.comEZOX (Tel. 0152 23 2255) http://www.ezox.co.jp/

01/Scenery typical of Hokkaido can be found wherever you are, to the delight of overseas cyclists. 02/Lake Mashu is known to be one of the clearest in the world 03/The footbath in the Kawayu hot-spring resort is popular among tourists. 04/The exquisite view from Bihoro Pass is a great reward after a hard climb. 05/The Shiretoko Goko (five lakes) is one of the Best Eight Views of Shiretoko. 06/The white flowers of potatoes are in full bloom against the background of Mt. Sharidake.

With its unique natural beauty, the eastern Hokkaido area is a cycling paradise to which many cyclists visiting Hokkaido want to return. This superb cycling course, where traffic is gener-ally light and a succession of magnificent views can be enjoyed, is popular among inbound tourists from overseas.The course starts from Memanbetsu Airport, the air gateway to the Okhotsk area, and takes in famous tourists spots, including Lake Mashu, Lake Kussharo and Shiretoko, a designated

World Heritage site. The views of the lakes from the Bihoro Pass and Mashu observatories are breathtakingly beautiful. In the flowering season, a beautiful carpet of flowers spreads throughout the Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden. There is Kawayu and many other famous hot-spring resorts, and seafood from the Sea of Okhotsk is excellent. If you have enough time and energy, why not ride a little further to the Shiretoko Pass, Lake Saroma, Lake Akan or other locations?

Course guide


Mountainous back road: Take care not to make a wrong turning (light traffic).

Seaside station with an observatory: Take care as the toilets are small.

Many facilities, including a restaurant, roadside station and toilets. The Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden is 5 km ahead and is a “must-stop” destination in the flowering seasons. Toilets available.

Shiretoko Club. Replenish supplies and go to the toilet in downtown Shari, as there are no convenience stores until Utoro and no toilets until Oshinkoshin.

Coastal back road (crowded only in the fishing season between September and November)

Take care when turning right onto the national highway.

Straight back-road with wide shoulders, great for cycling


“Road to Heaven” with a superb view


Don’t miss this rest stop, which also has a hot-spring bath

Continuous rural scenery

Caution! Heavy traffic, many trucks

The superb view of Lake Kussharo is a “must-see” on fine days. Take sufficient care when descending.

Beautiful coastline: Be careful not to be too distracted by the scenery.

Try to visit if you have time, as sika deer can often be seen here.

2nd nightat Utoro

ShiretokoShiretoko

Mt. OnnebetsuMt. Onnebetsu

Mt. UnabetsuMt. Unabetsu

Mt. SharidakeMt. Sharidake

Mt. ShibetsuMt. Shibetsu

Nakashibetsu AirportNakashibetsu Airport

Lake TofutsuLake Tofutsu

Lake NotoroLake Notoro

Lake AbashiriLake Abashiri

Memanbetsu AirportMemanbetsu Airport

Lake KussharoLake Kussharo

Lake MashuLake Mashu

Mt. O-akandakeMt. O-akandake

Shari

KiyosatoKoshimizu

Ozora

Bihoro

AbashiriAbashiri

Take a rest at Sunayu

Mashu No.3 Observatory. Take sufficient care when descending the steep hill ahead.

If you have enough time, why not leave your baggage at the hotel and then go to Lake Mashu?

A superb view awaits those who climb the 10-km hill to the Mashu No.1 Observatory! There is also the Poppotei restaurant in front of the Mashu Station.

Teshikaga

Ozora

Bihoro

Teshikaga

Koshim

izu

Kiyosato

Shari

Ozora

Rest spaceShiretoko ClubBunko-cho 41-4, Shari Tel. 0152 23 1844

Meals made with local ingredients can be enjoyed amid the warm woody atmosphere of this restaurant. Homemade dishes cooked by the friendly staff are gentle on the taste buds. Shogayaki (ginger pork) and Salisbury steak are recommended.

PoppoteiAsahi 1-7-18, Teshikaga Tel. 015 482 2412

Roadside station Gurutto Panorama Bihoro-toge Aza-Furuume, Bihoro Tel. 0152 75 0700

Roadside station Hanayaka Koshimizu Aza-Hamakoshimizu 474-7, Koshimizu Tel. 0152 63 4111

Local cyclists highly recommend this restaurant in front of Mashu Station. Its Mashu butadon (rice topped with pork) and Teshikaga ramen are exquisite. It is also convenient for rinko, as it’s located right in front of the station. It is a “must-visit” place when cycling near Lake Mashu or Kawayu Onsen.


Roadside stationMashu OnsenYunoshima 3-3-40, Teshikaga

Mashu Station (tourist information office)Asahi 1-7-26, Teshikaga

Kawayu Onsen StationKawayu Onsen 1-1-18, Teshikaga

Sunayu Rest HouseSunayu, Teshikaga

Poppoya JR Bihoro Station, Shinmachi 3-chome, BihoroRoadside station Merchen no Oka Memanbetsu Memanbetsu Showa 96-1, OzoraRoadside station Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri Minami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome, AbashiriRoadside station Hanayaka Koshimizu Aza-Hamakoshimizu 474-7, KoshimizuKitami Mint Memorial Museum Minaminaka-machi 1-7-28, KitamiKunneppu Town Office Higashi-machi 398, KunneppuRoadside station Onneyu Onsen Matsuyama 1-4, Rubeshibe-cho, KitamiTsubetsu Town Office Saiwai-machi 41, TsubetsuKiyosato Town Office Hagoromo-machi 13, KiyosatoRoadside station Shari Hon-machi 37, ShariOketo Family Sports Center Aza-Oketo 398-14, OketoMemanbetsu Airport Building Memanbetsu Chuo 201-3, Ozora900 Sogen Aza-Tobetsu, Teshikaga




1st night atKawayu Onsen

Cycling Frontier Hokkaido (Tel. 0120 963 776 ) http://www.hokkaido-cycling.jp


Course guideTotal distance: approx. 282 km / Time required: approx. 18 hr. 50 min. / Grade: intermediate - advancedStart: Asahikawa Airport (Higashikagura) / Finish: Tokachi Obihiro Airport (Obihiro) Number of cycle rack locations: 21

Cycling through varied landscapes

01/A long straight stretch of road typical of Hokkaido 02/The mysterious atmospheric of a blue pond in Shirogane, Biei 03/A steep slope leading to Mt. Tokachidake 04/Furano and Biei are dotted with beautiful flower gardens. 05/Fields of flowers can be found everywhere in early summer. 06/Cycling through the beautiful hills of Biei is the height of luxury.

This pleasant course passes through varied landscapes, ranging from Hokkaido’s leading tourist spots such as Furano and Biei, where popular cycling events are held, to Lake Kanayama, Karikachi Pass, Sahoro Resort and the Tokachi Plain. Experienced cyclists and hill-climb enthusiasts should also try the climb up Mt. Tokachidake, which is one of the hardest in Hokkaido. The course can also be fun for gourmet cyclists,

as there are a number of shops and restaurants offering local specialties and sweets. The accommodation facilities and hot springs are also too good to miss. Why not spend some quality time relieving your fatigue in a famous spa and enjoying lip-smacking culinary delights?While the road conditions on the course are generally good, making it easy to ride, care must be taken as convenience stores and other facilities are hard to find in some areas.

NishikaguraNishikagura

TomamuTomamu

Tomamu ICTomamu IC

Shimukappu ICShimukappu ICTokachi Shimizu ICTokachi Shimizu IC

Memuro ICMemuro IC

Obihiro JCTObihiro JCT

Memuro Obihiro ICMemuro Obihiro IC

Otofuke Obihiro ICOtofuke Obihiro IC

Land Café

Caution! Intersection with a national highway

Don’t forget to visit the blue pond.

Steep slope: Watch your speed.

Superb view of Karikachi Pass: Beware of the snow sheds (tunnels) when descending.

Downtown Furano: Ride carefully. Curry at Yuiga Doxon is exquisite.

Superb lakeside viewEbikin

Scenery typical of Tokachi: Take sufficient care at intersections.

Caution! Downtown Memuro

Be careful not to miss the left turn.

Furano Délice

Photogenic spot with a beautiful row of birch trees

Many points with superb views: do not to enter farm fields when taking photos.

Beware of traffic lights and railway crossings in downtown Furano.

Highest paved road in Hokkaido: Recommended for hill climbers and experienced cyclists.

Kamifurano

Furano

Minamifurano

Shintoku

Tokachi Shimizu

ObihiroMemuro

Shikaoi

Nakafurano

Biei

HigashikaguraAsahikawa AirportAsahikawa Airport

SounkyoSounkyo

Taisetsuzan MountainsTaisetsuzan Mountains

Mt. IshikaridakeMt. Ishikaridake

Mt. TokachidakeMt. Tokachidake

Mt. FuranodakeMt. Furanodake

Mt. AshibetsudakeMt. Ashibetsudake

Lake KanayamaLake Kanayama

Tokachi Obihiro AirportTokachi Obihiro Airport

Mt. MemurodakeMt. Memurodake

Mt. ObihirodakeMt. Obihirodake

Mt. NukabiradakeMt. Nukabiradake

Shirogane OnsenShirogane Onsen

Mt. MuriidakeMt. Muriidake

1st night at Shirogane

3rd night at Sahoro Resort

2nd night atFurano

HigashikaguraA

sahikawa

Biei

Nakafurano

Furano

Minam

ifurano

Shintoku

Shikaoi

Mem

uro

Obihiro

Tokachi Shimizu

Kam

ifurano

Rest spaceFurano DéliceAza-Shimogoryo 2156-1, Furano Tel. 0167 22 8005

The delicious sweets of Furano Délice reflect the commitment of the owner/pâtissièr, who is also a cyclist, to make the finest sweets using fresh ingredients available in Hokkaido. The most highly recommended is the Furano Milk Pudding. Enjoy the finest-quality sweets in the stylish café.

Yuiga DoxonHinode-machi 11-8, Furano Tel. 0167 23 4784

The popular Furano restaurant is famous for its curry. The curry served in this unique mountain lodge-style restaurant is exquisite. Say the password “ru-ru-ru-ru” if you want more curry.

German-style farm café Land Café Aza-Mita Dai 2, Biei Tel. 0166 92 5800

Ebikin Shin-machi 1-chome 20, Shikaoi Tel. 0156 66 2254


Shiki-no-Koryukan Midorigaoka, Shinsei, BieiRoadside station Biei Oka-no-kura Hon-cho 1-9-21, BieiFrontier Furanui Spa Shin-machi 4-chome, KamifuranoTokachidake Onsen Kamihoro-so Tokachidake Onsen, KamifuranoFurano Station Hinode-machi 1-30, FuranoFurano Marche Saiwai-cho 13-1, FuranoLake Kanayama Log Hotel Larch Aza-Higashishikagoe, MinamifuranoRoadside station Shizen-taikan Shimukappu Aza-Chuo, ShimukappuShimukappu Product Center Aza-Shimukappu, ShimukappuParking lot in front of Tomita Melon House Nishi 1-sen Kita 15-go, NakafuranoHigashitaisetsu Nature Center Aza-Nukabira Gensenkyo 48-2, KamishihoroLake Shikaribetsu Nature Center Shikaribetsu-kohan, ShikaoiRoadside station Nakasatsunai Odori Minami 7-chome 14, NakasatsunaiTokachigawa Onsen Tourist Guide Center Minami 12-chome 1-23, Tokachigawa Onsen, OtofukeIkeda Wine Castle Kiyomi 83, IkedaKumagera House Hon-cho 160, MakubetsuShintoku Soba-no-Yakata Kisen 102, Shintoku



Asahikawa AirportHigashi 2-sen 16-go 98, Higashikagura

Tokachi Obihiro AirportNishi 9-sen Naka 8-41, Izumi-cho, Obihiro

Roadside station MinamifuranoAza-Ikutora 687, Minamifurano

Nakafurano Flower ParkMiya-machi 2-1, Nakafurano


Back-road ride to the scenic Ishikari coast

Total distance: approx. 86 km / Time required: approx. 5 hr. 45 min. / Grade: intermediateStart: Sapporo TV Tower (Sapporo) / Finish: Moerenuma Park (Sapporo)

Cycling Frontier Hokkaido (Tel. 0120 963 776) http://www.hokkaido-cycling.jpCycle Ono Sapporo (Tel. 011 621 0501) http://www.onosapporo.jpCycle Shop Nakamura Sapporo (Tel. 011 532 9588) http://www.csnakasp.comBicycle and Wheelchair Shop Matsuda (Tel. 011 555 2107) http://jitensya-matsuda.com

RippleMorai, Atsuta-ku, Ishikari Tel. 0133 77 2288Honke Nakamura Futomi-cho 1499-7, Tobetsu Tel. 01332 6 2039

Course guide

Rest space


Ishikari Bay

Ishikari Bay New Port

Ishikari

Tobetsu

Atsuta-ku

Sapporo

Shinoro

Ishikari Futomi

Ishikari Tobetsu

01/Superb view of the Sea of Japan from Morai, Atsuta-ku, Ishikari 02/Moerenuma Park, venue for cycle events 03/Have the vast expanse of the Sea of Japan all to yourself! 04/Canoeing on the Barato River, which flows through the Ishikari Plain 05/Fields of sunflowers are heartwarm-ing. 06/The red-roofed townscape of Sweden Hills in Tobetsu

From the TV Tower in central Sapporo, head northwest toward the scenic Ishikari coast, through ever changing landscapes. Cycle alongside the Ishikari River and cross the bridge at the Ishikari Estuary and then on to long straight roads that lead to the horizon, and rural areas with beautiful undulating hills. It is so peaceful that you will forget how close you are to such a large city. In summer, fields are awash with yellow sunflowers and white or purple potato flowers. At the top of a hill on the road to the

turning point in Mourai, Atsuma, panoramic views of the Sea of Japan await. The course finishes at Moerenuma Park, which was designed by the world-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi on the concept of the entire park being one huge sculpture. The course includes many back roads, and although the lack of traffic signals and junctions makes it a great place to ride, cyclists are advised to carry a GPS devise or map to avoid getting lost.



This course in Sapporo is popular among local cyclists, who can be seen whizzing along on sports bikes at the weekends and holidays. The figure-of-eight course starts and finishes in Makomanai Park, which is approximately 8 km south of downtown Sapporo and was the main venue of the Sapporo Winter Olympics in 1972. It runs around the foot of Mt. Moiwa to the north and leads towards Takino Suzuran Hillside Park to the south.Enjoy cycling amid Sapporo’s abundant nature that belies the fact it’s such a large metropolis, on a suitably undulating course that makes it so worthwhile.

01/Makomanai Park is a popular place for locals to relax 02/Country Garden in Takino Suzuran Hillside Park colored with seasonal flowers 03/Natural Takino landscapes don’t seem like those of a big city 04/Cycling road that extends from Makomanai Park

Enjoy nature to the full on this popular Sapporo course.

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 44 km / Time required: approx. 3 hr. / Grade: beginnerStart/Finish: Makomanai Park (Sapporo)

Cycling Frontier Hokkaido (Tel. 0120 963 776) http://www.hokkaido-cycling.jpCycle Ono Sapporo (Tel. 011 621 0501) http://www.onosapporo.jpCycle Shop Nakamura Sapporo (Tel. 011 532 9588) http://www.csnakasp.comBicycle and Wheelchair Shop Matsuda (Tel. 011 555 2107) http://tesikaga.exblog.jp/

Takino Suzuran Hillside ParkTakino 247, Minami-ku, Sapporo Tel. 011 592 3333Benizakura ParkSumikawa 389, Minami-ku, Sapporo Tel. 011 581 4858

Rest space


Long ride toward the horizon

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 101 km / Time required: approx. 6 hr. 45 min. / Grade: intermediate - advancedStart/Finish: Centennial Memorial Tower in Nopporo Forest Park (Sapporo)

Cycling Frontier Hokkaido (Tel. 0120 963 776) http://www.hokkaido-cycling.jpCycle Ono Sapporo (Tel. 011 621 0501) http://www.onosapporo.jpCycle Shop Nakamura Sapporo (Tel. 011 532 9588) http://www.csnakasp.comBicycle and Wheelchair Shop Matsuda (Tel. 011 555 2107) http://tesikaga.exblog.jp/

Roadside station ShinshinotsuDai 45-sen Kita 2, Shinshinotsu Tel. 0126 58 3166

Mieko Park Minami 13-sen Nishi 3, Nanporo Tel. 011 378 1270

Rest space


Minami Ward

Fujino Takino

Toyohira Ward

01/There is a roadside station and a hot spring near Shinshinotsu Park. 02/Outlet store of the Tonden Farm in Ebetsu 03/Take a quick side trip to the old silo site in front of the prefectural library. 04/Old brick buildings still remain around JR Kurisawa Station. 05/Roads around Iwamizawa and Kitamura are flat and easy to ride.

This long-ride course starts from Nopporo Forest Park to the northeast of Sapporo and runs through the scenic rural areas of Ishikari and southern Sorachi. It leads from a busy national highway to a prefectural road and then to the Tappu Ohashi Bridge. Don’t miss the view of the Ishikari River from the bridge. After reaching the

first turning point at the roadside station in Shinshinotsu, the course runs along the pleasant country roads of a farming area and on to central Kuriyama toward the rest point in Mieko Park, Nanporo. The finish point is a short ride along the cycling road from the second turning point at JR Kitahiroshima Station.


Contact:

Tobetsu Iwamizawa

Ebetsu

Shinshinotsu

Iwamizawa

Nanporo

Ebetsu

KitahiroshimaKitahiroshima

Nopporo

Naganuma

Hokkaido Expressw

ay

Course to enjoy the cyclists’ paradise – Furano and Biei

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 105 km / Time required: approx. 7 hr. / Grade: advancedStart/Finish: JR Furano Station (Furano) / Number of cycle rack locations: 6

Sportopia (Tel. 0167 22 1935) http://www.sportpia.co.jp/furano/Alpine Visitor Center (Tel. 0167 22 1311) http://www.alpn.co.jp/Leisure Guide Asobiya (Tel. 0167 22 0534) http://www.asobiya.jp/

Tomita Melon HouseMiya-machi 3-32, Nakafurano Tel. 0167 39 3333Furano BurgerHigashitorinuma 1, Furano Tel. 0167 23 1418

Rest space


Course around the Patchwork hills in Biei

Course guide (upper course)Total distance: approx. 60 km / Time required: approx. 3 hr. 50 min. / Grade: intermediateStart/Finish: Biei Sports Center (Biei) / Number of cycle rack locations: 2

Course guide (lower course)Total distance: approx. 100 km / Time required: approx. 6 hr. 40 min. / Grade: advancedStart/Finish: Biei Sports Center (Biei) / Number of cycle rack locations: 2

Terashima Shokai (Tel. 0166 92 2191) Biei Bicycle Tour (Tel. 090 6218 1111) http://www.biei-bicycle.com/Guide-no-Yamagoya (Tel. 0166 95 2277) http://www.yamagoya.jp/

German-style farm café Land CaféAza-Mita Dai 2, Biei Tel. 0166 92 5800

Farm Restaurant ChiyodaKasugadai 4221, Biei Tel. 0166 92 1718

Rest space


01/Ride through the open hills beneath the vast blue sky. 02/The magnificent mountain range comes into view while passing over Hachi-man Hill from Rokugo. 03/A leisure-ly ride through the scenic hills of Biei 04/Become one with the rural scenery 05/Refreshing lavender field

The Great Earth Furano Ride is held every June. This 105 km course extends through the Furano and Biei countryside awash with flowers and greenery. Cyclists start from JR Furano Station and pass fragrant lavender fields and on towards the hills of Biei while enjoying views of Mt. Tokachidake. On the way back from Biei,

the course takes in Kamifurano and Nakafurano, as well as Rokugo, the location of a famous TV drama. After the steeply sloped, toughest part of the course, enjoy the descent and the view of the Furano Basin as you head toward the finish.

Takisato Dam

Nakafurano

Kamifurano

Biei

Furano

Bibaushi

Kamifurano

Lavender fields

The Biei Century Ride, held every September, is a long-ride event that covers a total of 160 km in two days. The Beauty of the autumn leaves on Mt. Tokachidake and the Taisetsu Mountains as well as that of the endless rolling countryside attracts countless cyclists. The distance is 60 km on the first day and 100 km on the second. After a steep climb, the landscape that unfolds is out of this world. Be sure to experience the “town of hills” in its autumn colors amid the breeze and fresh air of Biei!

01/Feel the breeze while enjoying views of the magnificent Tokachidake mountains. 02/Pass by fields of potato flowers… 03/Ride through the colorful land. 04/Over the colorful Patchwork hills

Higashikagura

Biei

Chiyogaoka

Bibaushi

Kitabiei

Biei

Higashikagura

Biei

Chiyogaoka

Bibaushi

Kitabiei

Biei

approx. 60 km

approx. 100 km

01/Towering Mt. Ashibetsudake, the highest peak of the Yubari Mountains. 02/Cycle swiftly through Todai Jumokuen garden. 03/The hardest part leading to Lake Kanayama 04/Gentle breezes blow by Lake Kanayama.

The course starts from JR Furano Station and runs to the south with the majestic Mt. Ashibetsudake on the right. After joining the national highway, it heads along the Sorachi River steadily gaining altitude. If you have time, stop at the University of Tokyo Forest famous for its row of cherry-blossom trees. When the dam comes into sight, you

are about to reach the steeply sloping tunnel by Lake Kanayama, which is the hardest part of the course. You can also get off your bike at Lake Kanayama, to relax in the lakeside breeze while enjoying the vast landscape. On the way back, the course takes the Rokugo Kaido road along the Furebetsu River to finish point in downtown Furano.

A leisurely and relaxing course by Lake Kanayama

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 87 km / Time required: approx. 5 hr. 50 min. / Grade: intermediateStart/Finish: JR Furano Station (Furano) / Number of cycle rack locations: 4

Lake Kanayama Campsite (Tel. 0167 52 3132)Hoshino Resort Tomamu (Tel. 0167 58 1111) http://www.snowtomamu.jp/MTB Hokkaido (Tel. 0167 22 5655)

Restaurant Le MontagneHigashishikagoe, Minamifurano (within Lake Kanayama Log Hotel Larch) Tel. 0167 52 3100Gohan-ya LarchIkutora 687-1, Minamifurano (within Roadside station Furano) Tel. 0167 52 2100Onoda Shokudo Rokugo Shigaichi, Furano Tel. 0167 29 2662

Rest space


Furano

Lake Kanayama

Minamifurano

Sorachi River

Furano

Nunobe

Yamabe

Kanayama

The hill-climb course on Mt. Tokachidake has a difference in elevation of 1,050 m and is recommended for those who like steep climbs. The course starts from Kamifurano and runs along the Tokachidake Lavender Road, which is one of the “top 100 roads” in Hokkaido. As the name suggests, beautiful lavenders grow by the road. After cycling about 8 km, the hill climb begins in earnest. The effort required to climb up the Tokachidake Skyline Route is rewarded with an enjoyable scenic descent. Ride down the Tenku-no-michi and Shirakaba Kaido roads and return to the finish point while enjoying the fields of flowers on the hills

01/To the Ryounkaku hot spring after reaching the top of the steep hill. 02/View from the Tokachidake Skyline Route 03/The view down from Tokachidake Onsen Ryounkaku 04/Tokachidake Lavender Road – one of the “top 100 roads” in Hokkaido

One of Japan’s hardest hill-climb courses

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 53 km / Time required: approx. 3 hr. 30 min. / Grade: advancedStart/Finish: JR Kamifurano Station (Kamifurano) / Number of cycle rack locations: 2

Naganuma Cycle Shop (Tel. 0167 45 2417)Country Terrace Koropokkur (Tel. 0167 44 2583) http://www.koropo.com

Tokachidake Onsen Yumoto RyounkakuTokachidake Onsen, Kamifurano Tel. 0167 39 4111

Rest space


Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Furano Biei Tourism Promotion Association at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact for inquiries about the Furano/Biei area:

Furano Biei Tourism Promotion Association Yayoi-cho 1-1, FuranoTel. 0167 39 2312 Fax 0167 23 2123 [email protected]

Nisshin Dam Shirogane Dam

Tokachidake Onsen

Hinode DamFurano

Ride alongside the Ishikari River toward the Sounkyo Ravine

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 82 km / Time required: approx. 5 hr. 30 min. / Grade: beginner - intermediateStart/Finish: JR Asahikawa Station (Asahikawa) / Number of cycle rack locations: 4

Asahikawa Country Travel (Tel. 0166 22 0001) http://www.asahikawa-travel.com/

Roadside station AsahikawaKagura 4-jo 6-chome 1-12, Asahikawa Tel. 0166 61 2283Aibetsu Riverfront ParkAza-Chuo, Aibetsu Tel. 01658 6 5610Toma Sports Land6-jo 4-chome, Toma Tel. 0166 84 2587

Rest space


Pippu JCT

Pippu Kita IC

Asahikawa Takasu IC

Asahikawa

Pippu

Toma

Kyowa Onsen

01/View of the Taisetsu Mountains from near Aibetsu 02/Golden carpet of rice fields in Asahikawa 03/Cycle under many bridges toward the upper reaches of the Ishikari River. 04/Turning point at Aibet-su Riverfront Park 05/Kamikawa Basin surrounded by mountain ranges 06/Ueno Farm with a variety of flowers blooming 07/Straight road from Toma to Asahikawa 08/Asahiyama Zoo, where the natural abilities of animals can be seen up close

The course runs north along the cycling road from JR Asahikawa Station, through the strawberry-producing town of Pippu and then on to Aibetsu, which is known as the “home of mushrooms.” After crossing the Ishikari River and entering the mountainous area, you will reach the turning point at the end of the cycling road in Nakaaibetsu. If you have enough time – and strength in your legs – why not ride up Route 39 to Kamikawa and Sounkyo Onsen to see the columnar joint cliffs and relax in a hot-spring bath? From the turning point it’s a nonstop ride down to Toma, an

area in which rare black-skinned Densuke watermelons are produced. After stopping off at Toma Sports Land, continue on to Ueno Farm, which has a popular Hokkaido Garden that is landscaped in the form of an English garden. The course then leads to Asahiyama Zoo and to the finishing point at Asahikawa Station.

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Asahikawa Tourism Promotion Council at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Asahikawa Tourism Promotion Council Asahikawa Food Terrace 2F, 5-jo dori 7-chome, AsahikawaTel. 0166 25 7168 Fax 0166 26 8585 [email protected]

A river-view ride to the backdrop of the Taisetsu Mountains, a garden where the gods play

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 85 km / Time required: approx. 5 hr. / Grade: beginner - intermediateStart/Finish: JR Asahikawa Station (Asahikawa) / Number of cycle rack locations: 3

Asahikawa Country Travel (Tel. 0166 22 0001) http://www.asahikawa-travel.com/Asahikawa Tourism and Local Products Information Center/East concourse, JR Asahikawa Station (Tel. 0166 26 6665) http://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/files/kankou/information2.htm#renta

Mori-no-yu Hotel HanakaguraHigashikagura 25-go Tel. 0166 83 3800Kitoushi Forest Park Family Trip VillageNishi 5-go Kita 44, Higashikawa Tel. 0166 82 2632The Sun Kuroudo Kuranama Factory ShopKogyo Danchi 1-jo 2-chome, Asahikawa Tel. 0166 76 1501

Rest space


Asahikawa Airport Chubetsu

Dam

Asahikawa Takasu IC

Nishikagura

Biei

Toma

01/Cycle through Higashikagura toward the Taisetsu Mountains 02/Asahi Bridge – a symbol of Asahikawa and a Hokkaido Heritage site 03/Beautiful Twin Harp Bridge in Asahikawa 04/Chubetsu Dam retains the beautiful water of the Taisetsu Mountains 05/Cycling up the steep hill toward Mt. Asahidake 06/Riding to a stylish café in Higashikawa 07/Cycling road in Higashikagura surrounded by flowers 08/Cool breezes blow from the Taisetsu Mountains even in summer. 09/Shujitsu Hills – a scenic spot close to Asahikawa Airport

The course starts from JR Asahikawa Station, runs along the Chubetsu River and then toward Higashikagura, known as the “town of flowers.” Colorful flowerbeds maintained by townspeople can be found everywhere in the town. After cycling through the downtown area and toward Mt. Asahidake, which is the highest peak in Hokkaido, you will reach the turning point at the Chubetsu Dam. If you have enough energy, go a little further to the Taisetsu Asahidake spring and quench your thirst with natural mineral-rich water. Higashikawa, at the foot of the mountain, is the only town in Hokkaido

where domestic water is supplied entirely by groundwater. If you have some extra time, it is also a good idea to visit a stylish café or bakery there. After cycling through the town, along a long, straight road for more than 10 km and around the foot of Mt. Asahi, you will reach Japan’s northernmost zoo, Asahiyama Zoo, where you can see the expressions, dynamic movements and even the undersides of the paws of animals, which you cannot normally see. The finish point is close once you can see Asahi Bridge, a symbol of Asahikawa, burning crimson in the setting sun.

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Asahikawa Tourism Promotion Council at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Asahikawa Tourism Promotion Council Asahikawa Food Terrace 2F, 5-jo dori 7-chome, AsahikawaTel. 0166 25 7168 Fax 0166 26 8585 [email protected]

A tour of panoramic views from the pass, and mysterious lakes Visit scenic spots along the Tokachi River

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 70 km / Time required: approx. 4 hr. 40 min. / Grade: advancedStart: Mikuni Pass resting place (Kamishihoro) / Finish: Roadside station Urimaku (Shikaoi)Number of cycle rack locations: 2

Roadside station Shikaoi (Tel. 0156 66 1125) http://michinoeki-shikaoi.com/

Higashitaisetsu Nature CenterAza-Nukabira Gensenkyo 48-2, Kamishihoro Tel. 01564 4 2323Shikaribetsu Kohan Onsen Hotel FusuiShikaribetsu Kohan, Shikaoi Tel. 0156 67 2211Roadside station Urimaku1 Banchigai, Urimaku Nishi 3-chome, Shikaoi Tel. 0156 67 2345

Rest space


Course guideTotal distance: approx. 65 km / Time required: approx. 4 hr. 30 min. / Grade: beginnerStart/finish: Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Guide Center (Otofuke) / Number of cycle rack locations: 3

Hokkaido Tokachigawa Onsen Tourism Association (Tel. 0155 32 6633) http://www.tokachigawa.net/Tokachi Nature Center (Tel. 0155 32 6116) http://www.nature-tokachi.co.jp/

Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Guide CenterMinami 12-chome 1-23, Tokachigawa Onsen, Otofuke Tel. 0155 32 6116Ikeda Wine CastleKiyomi 83, Ikeda Tel. 015 572 2469Kumagera HouseHon-cho 160, Makubetsu Tel. 0155 54 2289

Rest space


01/To Nukabira Gensenkyo through the extensive green forest 02/Mikuni Pass tinted with autumn leaves. The thick green sea of trees in summer is also impressive. 03/Taushubetsu-gawa Kyoryo known as the phantom bridge 04/Mysterious Lake Shikari-betsu 05/Horse riding can also be enjoyed at the finish point, Roadside station Urimaku.

This mountainous course features panoramic views from the top of Mikuni Pass in Kamishihoro and passes around two beautiful lakes. While descending, enjoy the sea of green trees in summer and superb views of colored leaves in autumn. Cycle to Nukabira Gensenkyo amid views of Taushubetsu-gawa Kyoryo – known as the Megane

(eyeglass) Bridge – by Lake Nukabira. After the gentle climb over Horoshika Pass you will reach Lake Shikaribetsu. Finally, enjoy the pleasant ride down toward the finish point at the Roadside station Urimaku, from the Ogigahara Observatory overlooking the Tokachi Plain.

01/Heading to the wine town of Ikeda past fields of grapes 02/Sheepdog demonstrations are popular at Tokachi Makiba-no-ie 03/Ikeda Wine Castle, where Tokachi Wine is gently matured 04/Japanese elm tree, the symbol of Toyokoro 05/A botanical moor hot spring relieves the fatigue of cycling.

The cycling course along the Tokachi River, which nourishes the Tokachi land, starts from the Tokachigawa hot-spring resort famous for its botanical moor hot spring. After cycling over the hills to the east amid views of winery grape fields, you will eventually arrive in Ikeda, which boasts the Tokachi Makiba-no-ie with its grazing sheep, and the Tokachi Wine

Castle that is the home of the Tokachi Wine winery. The course runs to the south from here, to the turning point in Toyokoro, known for the solitary Japanese elm tree that stands by the Tokachi River. The course then crosses the river on the Toyokoro Ohashi bridge and heads toward downtown Obihiro via Makubetsu, the birthplace of park golf.

Mikuni Pass

Taushubetsu-gawa Kyoryo

Lake NukabiraHigashitaisetsu Nature Center

Lake ShikaribetsuOgigahara Observatory

Roadside station Urimaku

Tokachigawa OnsenTokachi Makiba-no-ie

Ikeda Wine Castle

Kumagera House

Tokachi River

Japanese Elm treeMoiwayama Natural Park

Makubetsu

Ikeda

Toyokoro

Toshibetsu

Ikeda IC

A tour of beautiful gardens and the vast plain that stretches to the horizon

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 90 km / Time required: approx. 6 hr. / Grade: intermediateStart/finish: JR Obihiro Station (Obihiro) / Number of cycle rack locations: 1

Obihiro Tourism and Convention Bureau (Tel. 0155 22 8600) http://www.obikan.jp/ssi-bin/rental-cycle/Ozumi Shokai (Tel. 0155 24 3088) Kamada Ringyo (Tel. 0155 23 7101)

Roadside station NakasatsunaiOdori Minami 7-chome 14, Nakasatsunai Tel. 0155 67 2811Shichiku GardenNishi 4-sen 107, Biei-cho, Obihiro Tel. 0155 60 2377Obihiro Chikusan Kenshu Center (Cowbell House)Nishi 4-sen 194, Yachiyo-cho, Obihiro Tel. 0155 60 2919

Rest space


Manabe Garden

Makubetsu Onsen

Aikoku Station

Kofuku Station

Tokachi Obihiro AirportRoadside station Nakasatsunai

Shichiku Garden

Rokka-no-MoriObihiro Chikusan Kenshu Center (Yachiyo Farm)

Memuro Obihiro IC

MemuroNishiobihiro

Obihiro Satsunai

01/Cycling along a straight road toward the horizon 02/Local delicacies can be enjoyed at the roadside station Nakasatsu-nai. 03/Rokka-no-mori, a garden owned by Rokkatei 04/Manabe Garden – Japan’s first conifer garden 05/Yachiyo Farm, where cows graze leisurely on the mountain slope 06/Shichiku Garden colored with seasonal flowers 07/Row of birch trees with a beautiful contrast of white and green 08/Patchwork fields spreading over the vast Tokachi Plain 09/Riding past green curtains of yam toward Yachiyo Farm

This route runs through the vast Tokachi Plain and around three unique gardens along the Hokkaido Garden Road. The flat course, which begins at JR Obihiro Station and runs to the south along Route 236, is recommended even for beginners. The Manabe Garden, known as Japan’s first conifer garden, is on the way to the roadside station, while the Rokka-no-mori garden with a colony of wild Hokkaido plants and a small art gallery, is also close by. The former Aikoku and Kofuku stations, known for their auspicious names meaning “land of love“ and “happiness,” are still visited by many people even now, 40 years after the boom

they created here in Japan. In the latter half of the course, a ride up the gentle slope at the foot of the Hidaka Mountains brings you to Yachiyo Farm, where time passes slowly amid scenes of cows grazing leisurely. Shichiku Garden, where some 2,500 varieties of flowers bloom throughout the seasons, is the last garden before returning to JR Obihiro Station.

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Tokachi Area Tourism and Airport Promotion Council at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact:Tokachi Area Tourism and Airport Promotion Council Nishi 5-jo Minami 7-chome 1, Obihiro (in the Tourism Section, Commerce and Tourism Department, City of Obihiro)Tel. 0155 65 4169 Fax 0155 23 0172 [email protected]

A course from which to enjoy the unspoiled nature and famous hot springs of eastern Hokkaido

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 106 km / Time required: approx. 6 hr. 40 min. / Grade: advancedStart/finish: Kawayu Eco Museum Center (Teshikaga) Number of cycle rack locations: 5

Roadside station Mashu Onsen (tourist information office)Yunoshima 3-3-5, Teshikaga Tel. 015 482 2500Poppo-teiAsahi 1-7-18, Asahi, Teshikaga Tel. 015 482 2412Orchard Grass (in JR Kawayu Onsen Station)Kawayu Ekimae 1-1-18, Teshikaga Tel. 015 483 3787

Rest space

Lake Kussharo

Teshikaga

Kawayu Onsen

Lake Mashu

Kawayu Onsen

Mashu

01/Riding down Bihoro Pass overlooking the Kussharo caldera 02/Take a foot bath and rest at the roadside station Mashu Onsen. 03/JR Kawayu Onsen Station is a recommended rest spot. 04/The rural landscape spreads around the long descent from Lake Mashu. 05/Depart from Kawayu Onsen toward the smoking Mt. Io 06/Roadside potato flowers are in full bloom in August. 07/Mysterious Lake Mashu makes you forget the fatigue of riding up the hill. 08/The dynamic view of Lake Kussharo looking down from Bihoro Pass

This course for experienced cyclists takes in scenic spots such as Lake Mashu, which is among the world’s clearest lakes, Mt. Io and Lake Kussharo. Mt. Io, close to the starting point at Kawayu Onsen, is an active volcano that continues to emit volcanic smoke. In June, the colony of labrador tea at the base of the mountain, is in full bloom. There are several “forest tunnels” around Mt. Io and Lake Kussharo that become colorful with leaves in autumn. Foot baths at JR Kawayu Onsen and Mashu stations and the roadside station Mashu Onsen are ideal places for

resting. Between Mt. Io and Lake Mashu is a mountainous route toward the peak, approximately 670 m above sea level. The observatory at the peak commands views of the beautiful blue water of Lake Mashu and the Shiretoko mountains in the distance. After cycling to the south to enjoy the 360-degree view from 900 Sogen and to the north to Bihoro Pass to see Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, follow the course as it winds around the Kussharo lakeside dotted with hot springs and beautiful autumn leaves, before returning to Kawayu Onsen.

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Lake Mashu Tourism Association at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Lake Mashu Tourism Association Chuo 1-chome 5-1, TeshikagaTel. 015 482 2200 Fax 015 482 1877 [email protected]

01/Tsurunuma Winery in Urausu is the largest of its kind in Japan. 02/Rose garden in Iwamizawa Park 03/Downtown Iwamizawa 04/Miu-ra Ohashi bridge over the Ishikari River connects Bibai and Urausu. 05/Takikawa Fureai-no-sato has cottages and hot-spring baths.

One of the appeals of the Sorachi area is its rural scenery with vast fields of grape vines. Cycle to the north on a route consisting mainly of back roads, and enjoy the extensive Ishikari Plain seen from the hilltops, and beautiful views of the grape fields while riding around the Hosui Winery in Iwamizawa,

Yamazaki Winery in Mikasa and Tsurunuma Winery in Urausu. At the Kurose Lavender Garden in Sunagawa close to the finishing point, lavenders are in full bloom between June and August. After finishing the course, relieve your fatigue in the hot spring at Takikawa Fureai-no-sato.

01/Heading toward Maruka Kogen in the Ebeotsu area of Takikawa 02/Rapeseed blossoming beautifully in the area around the Maruka Kogen Denshu-kan 03/Swiss-style landscaping is promoted in Utashinai 04/Farm road leading to the Kurose Laven-der Garden in Sunagawa 05/Exquisite view from the Furusato-no-mieru-oka observatory

The first half of the course provides a pleasant ride through the rural scenery of the northern Sorachi area. Why not enjoy seasonal local fruit and corn at the roadside station Denen-no-sato Uryu? After crossing the Ishikari River, the gentle ascent provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. Enjoy rapeseed flowers in spring and cosmos in

autumn at Maruka Kogen in Takikawa, the remnants of the coalmining industry that once thrived in Akabira, the view of Sorachi Plain from the Furusato-no-mieru-oka Observatory in Bibai, and sculptures by Kan Yasuda at the Arte Piazza Bibai art museum. After finishing, refresh yourself in the hot spring of Pipa-no-yu Yurin-kan.

Course from which to enjoy wineries and superb views of lavender fields in Sorachi Ride through the rural scenery toward the three scenic spots!

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 107 km / Time required: approx. 6 hr. / Grade: intermediateStart: Iwamizawa City Hall (Iwamizawa) / Finish: Takikawa Fureai-no-sato (Takikawa) Number of cycle rack locations: 6

Hero Hokkaido (Tel. 0136 55 7475) http://hero-hokkaido.com

Iwamizawa ParkShibun-cho 794, Iwamizawa Tel. 0126 25 6111Hosui WineryHosui-cho 364-3, Iwamizawa Tel. 0126 20 1810Mt. Tappu ObservatoryTappu, Mikasa Tel. 01267 2 3591

Antenna Shop PiPaShintoku-cho 1-ku, Bibai Tel. 0126 62 4343Tsurunuma WineryAza-Osatsunai 428-17, Urausu Tel. 0125 68 2646Kurose Lavender GardenIchinosawa 62, Sunagawa Tel. 0125 53 2685

Rest space


Course guideTotal distance: approx. 105 km / Time required: approx. 7 hr. / Grade: advancedStart: Takikawa Fureai-no-sato (Takikawa) / Finish: Pipaa-no-yu Yurin-kan (Bibai) Number of cycle rack locations: 6

Roadside station Denen-no-sato UryuAza-Manju 28-3, Uryu Tel. 0125 79 2100Maruka Kogen Denshu-kanEbeotsu-cho 3949-14, Takikawa Tel. 0125 75 5451Roadside station Utashinai Tirol SpaAza-Nakamura 72-2, Utashinai Tel. 0125 42 5566

Arte Piazza BibaiSakae-machi, Ochiai-cho, Bibai Tel. 0126 63 3137Pipa-no-yu Yurin-kanTomei-cho 3-ku, Bibai Tel. 0126 64 3800

Rest space


Takikawa

Sunagawa

Bibai

Iwamizawa

Akabira

Hokkaido Expressway

Hero Hokkaido (Tel. 0136 55 7475) http://hero-hokkaido.comVisit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Takikawa Tourist Association at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Takikawa Tourist Association Smile Bldg. 1F, Sakae-machi 3-chome 9-2, TakikawaTel. 0125 23 0030 Fax 0125 23 0918 [email protected]

HokuryuFukagawa

AkabiraTakikawa

Sunagawa

Bibai

Uryu

Hokkaido Expressway

01/Roads on which many cyclists can ride safely together 02/ March-en Hills famous for the seven trees 03/Even ordinary landscapes for the locals make perfect locations for cyclists.

01/An attractive course on which you can experience the mountains and the sea 02/Koshimizu Gensei-kaen (wild flower preserve), where 40 kinds of flowers welcome visitors 03/Abashi-ri’s famous lonesome pine with Mt. Sharidake in the distance

The course starts from the roadside station Marchen-no-oka Memanbetsu and continues on toward the Marchen Hills, which is a photogenic spot with seven impressive larch trees on the hilltop, and then on to a road that commands panoramic views of the Sea of Okhotsk. After entering downtown Abashiri, take a break at the

roadside station Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri near the estuary of the Abashiri River. After cycling along the coast, the course leads to a rural area with gentle hills. You’re almost at the finishing point once you reach the Asahigaoka Observatory, with its 360-degree panoramic view and beautiful sunflower field.

Ride swiftly over the undulating hills

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 42.8 km / Time required: approx. 2 hr. 50 min. / Grade: beginnerStart/finish: Roadside station Marchen no Oka Memanbetsu (Memanbetsu) Number of cycle rack locations: 2

Shiretoko Cycling Support (Tel. 0152 24 2380) http://www.shiretokocycling.com/

Roadside station Marchen no Oka MemanbetsuShowa 96-1, Memanbetsu, Ozora Tel. 0152 75 6160Roadside station Ryuhyo Kaido AbashiriMinami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome, Abashiri Tel. 0152 67 5007

Rest space


View the seasonal flowers and Shiretoko mountains

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 36 km / Time required: approx. 2 hr. 30 min. / Grade: beginnerStart/finish: JR Mokoto Station (Abashiri) Number of cycle rack locations: 1


Abashiri Quasi-National Park Koshimizu Gensei-kaenAza-Hamakoshimizu, Koshimizu Tel. 0152 63 4187Roadside station Hanayaka KoshimizuAza-Hamakoshimizu 474-7, Koshimizu Tel. 0152 63 4111

Rest space


Abashiri

Lake Mokoto

Lake Abashiri

Ozora

Abashiri

Memanbetsu

This is a relatively easy course that starts from Mokoto, Abashiri, and takes in Koshimizu Gensei-kaen (wild flower preserve) and Lake Tofutsu, which is a registered Ramsar site. After JR Kitahama Station, known as the station closest to the Sea of Okhotsk, fields of wild flowers spread over the long and narrow sand hills between the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Tofutsu. The sand hills are colored pink, orange and yellow with Siberian lily, rugosa rose and other flowers between June and August. After turning at the roadside station Hanayaka Koshimizu, famous for starch dumplings, the course runs through rural scenery and over gentle hills.

Lake Mokoto

Lake Tofutsu

Koshimizu Gensei-kaen (wild flower preserve)

Kitahama

Ham

akoshimizu

01/A leisurely ride while feeling the breeze. 02/Endless fields of wheat swaying under the blue sky 03/Kitami Mint Memorial Museum presents the history of mint in Kitami. A variety of Japanese and Western herbs bloom in the herb garden.

Relatively flat roads continue on this course around the rural outskirts of Kitami. Starting from Tanno Onsen Nonta-no-yu, the course runs along back roads and through the northern part of downtown Kitami. If you want to venture from the course and stop by in the downtown area, why not visit the Kitami Mint

Memorial Museum to learn about the history of mint in Kitami, which used to be one of the world’s leading mint producing areas. The final part of the course takes you through the rural landscapes of a hilly area stretching from Ainonai. After finishing the course, relieve your fatigue in the Nonta-no-yu hot spring.

Become one with the breeze while experiencing the rural landscape

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 53.5 km / Time required: approx. 3 hr. 30 min. / Grade: intermediateStart/finish: Tanno Onsen Nonta-no-yu (Kitami) Number of cycle rack locations: 1


Kitami Mint Memorial MuseumMinaminaka-machi 1-7-28, Kitami Tel. 0157 23 6200

Rest space


Enjoy the refreshing forests on this mountain course

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 41 km / Time required: approx. 2 hr. 45 min. / Grade: beginnerStart/finish: Roadside station Onneyu Onsen (Kitami) Number of cycle rack locations: 2


Roadside station Onneyu OnsenMatsuyama 1-4, Rubeshibe-cho, Kitami Tel. 0157 45 3373Oketo Family Sports CenterAza-Oketo 398-14, Oketo Tel. 0157 52 3075

Rest space


Higashiainonai-cho

Kitami

Kitami

Tanno

01/Gently undulating hills are a feature of this course. 02/The mechanical cuckoo-clock tower Kamurin is a symbol of the roadside station Onneyu Onsen. 03/There are places to rest around the Oketo Sports Center.

This is a short course of about 40 km, around Rubeshibe, Kitami, and Oketo. The course starts at the roadside station Onneyu Onsen and climbs steadily up along Route 39 and through a farming area towards a mountain pass if you ride in a clockwise direction; or over the pass and down through the farm land if you ride in an anticlockwise direction. On the way, Oketo is a thriving forestry area known for its simply designed and beautifully grained Oke-craft woodware. After finishing, visit the popular Yama-no-Aquarium that adjoins the roadside station, or enjoy bathing in the famous hot springs of the Onneyu Onsen resort

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Hokumo Area Cycling Tourism Promotion Council at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Hokumo Area Cycling Tourism Promotion Council Secretariat, Commerce and Industry Group, Industry Division, Ozora Town OfficeNishi 3-jo 4-chome 1-1, Ozora, Abashiri-gun Tel. 0152 74 2111 Fax 0152 74 3643 [email protected]

Oketo

Rubeshibe

Ride around Mt. Yotei famous for spring water and hot springs

Course guideTotal distance: approx. 55 km / Time required: approx. 3 hr. 30 min. / Grade: beginnerStart/finish: JR Kutchan Station (Kutchan) / Number of cycle rack locations: 5

Bicycle Corner (Tel. 0136 55 5882) http://the-bicycle-corner.comRhythm Cycles (Tel. 0136 23 0164) http://nisekocycles.com/ja/

SPROUTKita 1-jo Nishi 3-chome, Kutchan Tel. 0136 55 5161Roadside station Meisui-no-sato KyogokuAza-Kawanishi 45-1, Kyogoku Tel. 0136 42 2292Roadside station Niseko View PlazaAza-Motomachi 77-10, Niseko Tel. 0136 43 2051

Rest space


Kutchan

Niseko

Mt. Yotei

Kyogoku

Makkari

Kutchan

Niseko

Hirafu

01/Ride around Mt. Yotei, the landmark of Niseko 02/Cycle along farm roads while viewing Mt. Yotei and Annupuri 03/Flowering potato fields in summer 04/Rhythm Cycles offers rental, sale and maintenance services 05/Café Sprout in front of JR Kutchan Station 06/Roadside Niseko View Plaza is an ideal place to rest 07/Commemorative photos at the ostrich farm in Niseko 08/The overhead arrow indicating the road shoulder is a feature unique to snowy areas.

The Niseko area has extensive farming land adjacent to mountains and highlands, creating views typical of Hokkaido. The area, with its resort-style atmosphere, is often chosen as the venue of Tour de Hokkaido, one of Japan’s largest cycle races, as well as of many other local races and events. The most popular course in Niseko is the 55-km loop around the foot of Mt. Yotei, which is also known as Ezo Fuji (Hokkaido’s Mt. Fuji). Even beginners can complete the course in half a day. The first half of the course is a gentle climb with potato and corn fields on both sides. Rest

at Fukidashi Park in Kyogoku and the roadside station View Plaza in Niseko on the way, and try the spring water and other local specialties. Post-ride bathing is also popular, as there are numerous hot springs in the surrounding area.

Visit the official Hokkaido Cycle Tourism website or contact the Niseko Tourism Bureau Project Council at the address below for inquiries regarding cycle rack locations and other matters.

Contact: Niseko Tourism Bureau Project Council (c/o Kutchan Town Office) Kita 1-jo Higashi 3-chome, KutchanTel. 0136 56 8009 Fax 0136 23 2044 kankou@town_kutchan.lg.jp

List of bicycle races and events in HokkaidoCycling events that attract all kinds of riders are held in various parts of Hokkaido.The major events are introduced below.* Event schedules and details are of 2013. Please contact the organizers for details of events in and after 2014.

June Furano Date in 2013: June 23 (Sun.)

Great Earth Furano RideA long-ride event in which participants can experience the nature of Furano in its best season, adorned with flowers and greenery. In addition to the attractive course, aid stations with Furano melons and other local specialties, and optional tours are also popular.

Courses●A. Furano-Plain Course (55 km) ●B. Lavender Course (85 km)●C. Kita-no-Kuni-kara Course (115 km)

September Biei Dates in 2013: September 21 (Sat.) – 22 (Sun.)

Biei Century RideThe cycling event is held in the town of Biei, amid the vast, sprawling fields at the foot of the Tokachidake Mountains and the natural landscape of rolling hills. Beautiful and impressive views appear each time you pass over one of the gentle undulations.

Courses

●Biei Century Ride, Stage 1 (60 km) / Stage 2 (100 km)●Biei Hills Courses Panorama Course (25 km) / Patchwork Course (30 km)

August Niseko Dates in 2013: August 3 (Sat.) – 4 (Sun.)

Niseko Hanazono HillclimbThe event, which takes place amid the vast land and superb views of the mountains and hills of Kutchan, the base town of the world-class ski resort of Niseko, is known as the most popular hill-climb race in Hokkaido.

CourseDowntown Kutchan – Niseko Annupuri Goshiki Onsen (796 m above sea level)(total length: 15.5 km, average gradient: approx. 4.6%)

September Throughout Hokkaido Dates in 2013:September 14 (Sat.) – 16 (Mon., public holiday)

Tour de HokkaidoThe Tour de Hokkaido is one of Japan’s largest-scale cycle races and has been held since 1987. Intensely contested races take place every year on different courses throughout Hokkaido. Citizen Races held on the same days allow participants to experience the joy of racing on routes that are shorter versions of those used by the top athletes.

Courses (Citizen Races in 2013)

●Citizen Race Stage 1 (road race) 　 Course A: 85 km (Kutchan – Kyowa – Kutchan) 　 Course B: 50 km (Kyowa – Rankoshi – Kutchan) ●Citizen Race Stage 2 (road race) 　 Courses A/B: 67 km (Kamoenai – Kutchan)●Citizen Race Stage 3 (criterium) 　 Courses around Moerenuma Park in Sapporo: 2.2 – 33 km

Other bicycle races and events (* in 2013)

Event name Date Course

May Sapporo

Mashu

Sapporo

Fukagawa

Abashiri

Rusutsu

Niseko

Okhotsk

Nakasatsunai

Sarobetsu

Tokachi

Wide area

Rishiri

Hakodate Onuma

Monbetsu

Takikawa

Tour of Kamui Sapporo May 19 (Sun.) Road(long: 130 km, short: 60 km)

June

July

August

October

September

Century Run Monbetsu Oct. 13 (Sun.) Road(half: 85 km, quarter: 43 km)

Great Earth Hakodate Onuma Ride Sept. 16 (Mon. public holiday)

Road (60.2 km)Rishiri Island "Fureai" Cycling

Road (160 km)Century Run Yotei Sanroku

Road (160 km, 80 km)Century Run Tokachi Aug. 25 (Sun.)

Hillclimb, road (50 – 158 km)

Sarobetsu 100-mile Road July 21 (Sat.) – 22 (Sun.) Time trial, road (20 – 160 km)

Tokachi Nakasatsunai Gourmet Fondo July 14 (Sun.) Road (30 km, 100 km)

International Okhotsk Cycling July 12 (Fri.) – 14 (Sun.) Road (full: 212 km, day-trip: 41 km)

Nature Ride Niseko July 7 (Sun.) Road (20 – 200 km)

Tour of Kamui Rusutsu June 30 (Sun.) Road (long: 170 km, medium: 100 km, short: 60 km)

Okhotsk Century Ride Abashiri June 23 (Sun.) Road (full: 160 km, half: 89.4 km)

Century Run Fukagawa June 16 (Sun.) Road (80 km, 55 km)

Tour of Kamui Sorachi Takikawa Oct. 20 (Sun.) Road(medium: 100 km, short: 60 km)

Century Run Sapporo June 9 (Sun.) Road (full: 145 km, half: 85 km)

Gran Fondo Mashu June 1 (Sat.) – 2 (Sun.)

Aug. 25 (Sun.)

Aug. 25 (Sun.)

Road (65 km, 100 km)

Touring Hokkaido by bicycleinbound-jp.info/wp-content/pdf/hokkaido_cycketourismguide_en.pdfTouring Hokkaido by bicycle Cycle Tourism Hokkaido Promotion Network The Cycle Tourism Hokkaido

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