Beyond the Bicycle: MTB + Spring Ski = Niseko
The first video of 2016 from the "Let's Cycle Niseko" team takes us on a bike ride up for a sneaky bit of spring skiing...and an onsen of course!
Spring in Niseko sees locals move from skis/boards back onto wheels instead. But for a few weeks there is a unique opportunity to combine the two!
In the first video this summer from the "Let's Cycle Niseko" team, Paul shows us his perfect spring day: coffee from local legends "Sprout", a nice ascent up the road to the snow, strap into his skins and hike up the mountain for some nice spring turns. Still plenty of time to take in an onsen to heal those aching bones and then back down the hill (presumably in time for tea!).
Niseko is an incredible destination all year round and this video showcases some of the truly unique points of our little town in norther Japan. Fantastic food and drinks made by passionate locals, incredible roads for cycling, natural hot springs all over the place, views to die for and of course the best snow in the world.
Come and experience Niseko year round!
What's on for cyclists in 2016?
2016 Boardman Niseko Classic
Into its 3rd year, this race has now been awarded UCI Gran Fondo status - the first race in Asia to receive such a ranking. You can check out the preview video here to see what the event is all about. Then register online or visit the Boardman Niseko Classic website for more details.
Hanazono Hill Climb
The race climbs 617 vertical metres over 15.5 km at an average grade of 4.6% so is a test of the soul as much as the legs! The start point is right in the middle of the annual Kutchan Potato Festival (Jaga-matsuri). There are a number of categories ranging from elite to beginners and the focus of the event is on participation. For more information click here.
Tour de Hokkaido 2016
The Tour de Hokkaido is an annual professional road bicycle racing stage race held in Hokkaido, Japan since 1987 as part of the UCI Asia Tour. In 2016 two stages will be held in the Niseko-Hirafu area. The race takes place in early September and more information can be found here (Japanese only).
