Experience the heart of the Japanese countryside by bike,
just one hour from central Tokyo.
Located in southern Ibaraki Prefecture, Kasumigaura Ring Ring Road connects the former Tsukuba Railway cycling path with Lake Kasumigaura lakeside path to form an 180km cycling course.
Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Road is located within Suigo-Tsukuba Quasi-National Park. The area offers a diverse range of natural landscapes, from the rivers and wetlands of the Lake Kasumigaura area to Mount Tsukuba and the surrounding hills, as well as historical and cultural sites such as Kashima Shrine.
Mount Tsukuba Area
Take in magnificent views of Mount Tsukuba and the surrounding countryside on this course.
Mount Tsukuba is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. The Mount Tsukuba Area course is a dedicated cycle path built along the route of the former Tsukuba Railway. Old station buildings along the course have been turned into rest stops making this the perfect course for beginnners. An alternative route includes the Mount Tsukuba hillclimb course meaning this area truly has something for everyone!
Kasumigaura Area
Enjoy one of Japan's largest lakes on this lakeside course.
Lake Kasumigaura is Japan's second largest lake by surface area. Take in the blue skies and glittering waters as you cycle around Lake Kasumigaura and stop off along the way to sample some regional speciality dishes. On clear days Mount Tsukuba and Ushiku Daibutsu (the world's largest standing bronze Buddha statue) are visible across the lake!
Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Road includes both bike paths and public roads in some areas. Please be aware of traffic and cycle safely.
Some parts of the lakeside path in the Nishiura and Kitaura do not have fences. Stay away from the edge and be careful not to fall.
Designated as a national route
in November 2019
In the bicycle utilization promotion plan established in June 2018, in order to promote Japan's world-class cycling routes to Japan and abroad, a national route designated as a "national cycle route" that meets certain standards.The "national cycle route" system was institutionalized in September 2019.
About the first National Cycle Route designation
In November 2019, Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road was selected as the first designated route, along with "Biwaichi" and "Shimanami Kaido cycling route".
In the future, we will promote "cycle tourism" by publicizing "Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road" in Japan and overseas as a representative route of Japan and proud of to the world.
National Cycle Route | GOOD CYCLE JAPAN | Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
https://www.mlit.go.jp/road/bicycleuse/good-cycle-japan/national_cycle_route/english.html
CHARACTERISTIC
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- Something For Everyone
- From flat areas to hill climbs, there's something to suit every level of cyclist. What's more, courses are fully sign-posted in multiple-languages. There's plenty to see and do along the way, too!
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- Great Access and a Range of Starting Points
- Ring Ring Road can be easily accessed by train and bus from the Greater Tokyo Area and from nearby airports. In fact, it takes just 49 minutes from Tokyo Station to Ring Ring Square Tsuchiura! This cycling base is directly connected to Tsuchiura Station and is fully equipped with luggage lockers and showers.
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- Support and Amenities
- If you don't own your own bike, rental bikes are available to borrow and return at 11 locations along the course. There are also rest areas and Cycling Support Stations located throughout the course, so everyone can enjoy a safe and comfortable cycling experience.
"Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Route" is a route that goes around various local resources centered on "Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Road".
"Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Route" is a cycle route that connects to the "Tsukuba Kasumigaura Ring Ring Road", which is a national cycle route certified course.This route that runs in the south and center of Ibaraki prefecture is a cycle route based in Tsuchiura, where you can enjoy Tsukuba Hill Climb,Suigo Itako, Kashima Jingu, Hitachi Fudoki no Oka, town of Makabe where the historical townscape remains, and a long comfortable bicycle ride in Sakuragawa city.You can enjoy the rural scenery and local resources.
TIPS TO ENJOY CYCLING
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１.Follow the rules and be aware of other cyclists and road users.
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２.Use the right size of bike for you.
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３.Make sure your tyres are pumped up.
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４.Don't forget your helmet!
What to Wear
Wear light layers to cope with changes in temperature. Trousers should be stretchy, easy to move in, and not interfere with cycling. Shoes should be ankle-height, suitable for sports and have a hard sole. Shock-absorbing cycling gloves and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and insects make for a more comfortable experience.
Bags
Bags should be light and compact, including bags you plan to store in lockers. Saddle bags are available.
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・Cycling Route Map
maps of Ring Ring Road are available at Ring Ring Square Tsuchiura and rental cycle facilities.
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・Water and Food
make sure to bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels.
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・Tools and Spare Parts
be ready for punctures by bringing a spare inner tube and bicycle pump.
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・Saddle Cover
sports bikes have hard saddles, so bring a cushioned saddle cover to ride in comfort.
