Breaking News: Cycling Tour Around Lake Hamana in Japan Draws a Thousand Riders

Reported by Chen Zi-Yin / From Japan

▲ The “Hamana Lake Cycling Tour Hamamatsu” event in Hamamatsu, Japan, attracted 1,700 participants this year, making for a grand spectacle. (Photo / Reported by Chen Zi-Yin)

In the eyes of the Japanese, aside from baseball being the national sport, cycling is also an important national pastime. It’s common to see families cycling together on weekends, and local governments often organize various events inviting people to come together and enjoy biking. On March 24, the “Hamamatsu Cycling Tour” held in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, saw a total of 1,700 participants who rode their bikes together along cycling paths to explore Lake Hamana.

The annual “Hamamatsu Cycling Tour” has reached its 12th year this time, and despite only having a two-day registration window, it attracted 1,700 participants, showing the strong appeal of cycling among the Japanese. This event is divided into a professional group and a family group. As it is not a formal race, the goal is for participants to pedal while enjoying the charming scenery of Lake Hamana. The professional group’s course involves circling the entire lake — covering 80 kilometers to take in the sights along the way — while the 38-kilometer family group route takes place on well-developed cycling paths around the lake, making it perfect for parent-child experiences.

▲ Cycling around Lake Hamana is also one of the best family activities. (Photo / Reported by Chen Zi-Yin)

With the sound of starting horns, participants set off in their groups, cheering each other on as cries of “Ganbatte!” (Do your best!) filled the air. Rather than a competitive vibe, the atmosphere was warm and joyful. The organizers planned a smooth process and clear signage along the route, ensuring participants could bike with peace of mind and wrap up their weekend on a pleasant note.
▲ Not only can you admire the lakeside scenery, but you’ll also be surrounded by spring blossoms. (Photo / Reported by Chen Zi-Yin)
 
Totsuka Susumu, chairman of the Shizuoka Prefecture Cycling Association, also noted that Lake Hamana is a great place for cycling even on regular days. The 12th “Hamamatsu Cycling Tour” attracts a large number of Japanese participants every year. He hopes that more Taiwanese will visit Hamamatsu City in the future to experience its scenic beauty, and that Taiwan and Japan can bond over cycling by joining this exciting event together.