Rules - NISKEO DISCOVERY CYCLING

*Please note that following information may be subject to change without notice.

NISEKO / Shiribeshi area, Hokkaido, Japan

Friday, 13 June 2025

Main venue – Niseko Grand Hirafu
- Cycling Registration 10:00 - 17:00

Saturday, 14 June 2025

Main venue – Niseko Grand Hirafu
[ Google Map ]
- Cycling Registration on the day 6:30-8:00
- Roll Call Shakotan course>> 8:00AM / Yoichi course >> 8:30

※ Participants must use the designated parking lot.
※ There will be a briefing on important points, so all participants must gather at the start gate at least 20 minutes before their start time.
※ Checked baggage will be returned at the finish area. Please carry any valuables with you while cycling.

Yoichi Course
This approximately 55km one-way cycling route offers a diverse experience, featuring scenic potato fields, a breathtaking hill climb through majestic nature, panoramic views from a caldera, and a ride through picturesque orchards and wineries.

After finishing, celebrate with a lamb Jingisukan BBQ in the heart of an orchard! A bus transfer is available for the return trip, so you can fully enjoy your meal without worries.

Shakotan Course
Starting from the Niseko mountain range and descending toward the Sea of Japan, this stunning cycling route showcases the dramatic coastline and grand natural beauty of the Shakotan Peninsula. This 100km road trip allows you to fully experience fresh seafood, relaxing hot springs, and the famous "Shakotan Blue" ocean views.

After finishing, unwind with Hokkaido’s fresh seafood, Shakotan hot springs, and locally crafted Shakotan gin. A bus transfer is available for the return trip, so you can indulge in the post-ride feast to your heart’s content.

• Participants must provide their own bicycle, lights, helmet, and gloves (either by bringing their own or arranging rentals).
• Participants must be in good physical condition to complete their chosen course without difficulty.
• (Optional) Participants are encouraged to support local tourism and economic development by staying or sightseeing in the Shiribeshi region of Hokkaido.

Yoichi 55km Course:

• Open to 5th grade elementary school students and older who can maintain an average speed of at least 14 km/h.
• Minors require a signed parental/guardian consent form.
• Elementary and junior high school students must ride accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Shakotan 100km Course:

• Open to junior high school students and older who can maintain an average speed of at least 20 km/h.
• Minors require parental/guardian consent.
• Junior high school students must ride accompanied by a parent/guardian.

• 100 people each
  *Once it reaches the capacity, the entry will be closed.

• 100km Shakotan Course / ¥16,000 (Junior High School Students: ¥13,000)
• 55km Yoichi Course / ¥12,000 (Elementary & Junior High School Students: ¥8,000)

  ※ Entry fees are non-refundable under any circumstances, including participant cancellations.

• Entry opens: 12:00 noon, Friday, 21 February 2025
• Entry closes: 6:00 pm, Friday, 16 May 2025
  *Race entry will close once entries reach maximum number for each race category.

Niseko Classic Management Office
Email: [email protected]
Attn: Mr. Maeda, Hokkaido Events Team
15-3, Kita-1 Nishi-2, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun
Hokkaido 044-0051, JAPAN
Tel: +81-136-55-6081

Event Overview

• This is not a race but a cycling event aimed at promoting the attractions of the Niseko and Shiribeshi regions of Hokkaido.
• Except for designated timing areas, general traffic regulations apply throughout the course. Participants must obey basic traffic rules, including stopping at stop signs and red lights. Riding side by side or cutting in front of other riders is prohibited.

Course Map & Route Information

• Course map data will be provided via "Ride with GPS." Please download the route to your device or print a copy to carry with you.
• While caution signs will be installed where necessary, they may not cover all areas. Ensure you review and familiarize yourself with the route before riding and keep it accessible during the ride.
• The course includes multiple crossings over highways and national roads. Be cautious of large vehicles and avoid reckless riding.

Self-Supported Ride Regulations

• This event follows a self-supported ride format.
• Participants must carry necessary tools and equipment to handle mechanical issues such as flat tires (e.g., Allen keys, spare tubes, etc.).
• Checkpoints will provide some supplementary food, but not enough to fully sustain riders. Carry any additional nutrition and hydration you may need.
• Some checkpoints will serve as aid stations with cut-off times. Riders who do not meet the time limits may be redirected to a shorter route or transported back. Follow the staff's instructions accordingly. (Details on checkpoint locations and cut-off times will be announced later on the official website.)
• To ensure event safety and risk management, participants may be asked to share their ride data after the event.

Media & Environmental Responsibility

• The rights to any photos, videos, articles, or records from the event, including TV, newspaper, magazine, and internet publications, belong to the event organizers.
• Littering is strictly prohibited. Please take your trash with you or dispose of it at designated collection points to protect the environment.

Allowed Bicycles

• Only bicycles equipped with front and rear brakes are allowed.
• Not permitted: Fixed-gear bikes (track bikes), small-wheel bicycles, recumbents, and city bikes ("mamachari").
• Allowed: Single-speed bicycles with freehub mechanisms and both front and rear brakes.

Safety & Participation Requirements

• Helmets and gloves must be worn at all times while riding.
• No refunds will be provided under any circumstances, including event cancellation, course changes, or participant withdrawal.
• For cancellation policies, please check the official event terms and conditions.
• The event may be altered or canceled due to severe weather conditions at the organizer's discretion.
• Basic first aid will be provided for injuries or illnesses during the event, but further medical care is the participant's responsibility.
• All participants must carry their health insurance card.
• Course layouts may change due to unforeseen road conditions.
• Do not park in private business premises, store parking lots, facility grounds, or parks without permission.

Other Important Notes

• Participants are responsible for the security of their bicycles and accessories. The organizers are not liable for theft or damage.
• Weather conditions may change (rain, strong winds, fog, low temperatures, etc.). Bring appropriate clothing, such as leg warmers, arm warmers, windbreakers, or rain gear. (These will not be provided by the organizers.)
• While aid stations will offer some food and drinks, supplies are limited. Ensure you hydrate and refuel properly.
• Register emergency contact details for your group on your mobile phone and ensure you can communicate with the event headquarters.
• In case of an emergency or withdrawal, call the event headquarters at +81-136-55-6081 using your mobile phone.
• If you are in an area with no mobile signal, wait in a safe location. Event staff will patrol the course and pick up riders as needed.