Japan's Largest Cycling Road Race, Tour of Japan, Kicks Off on May 19
The Tour of Japan (UCI 2.1) will take place from May 19 to May 26.
The Tour of Japan is the largest cycling road race (stage race) in the country, featuring eight stages. It will be contested by 16 teams from Japan and abroad, including Japan's top teams.
Each stage will be held in the following areas, connecting Japan's two major cities, Osaka and Tokyo.
5/19 Stage 1: Sakai (Osaka)
Distance: 2.6km (Individual Time Trial)
Start at 13:35
5/20 Stage 2: Kyoto
Distance: 103.6km
Start at 9:45
5/21 Stage 3: Inabe (Mie)
Distance: 127km
Start at 9:30
5/22 Stage 4: Mino (Gifu)
Distance: 137km
Start at 9:15
5/23 Stage 5: Shinshu Ida (Nagano)
Distance: 120.9km
Start at 10:00
5/24 Stage 6: Fuji
Distance: 66.6km
Start at 10:05
5/25 Stage 7: Sagamihara (Kanagawa)
Distance: 107.5km
Start at 8:50
5/26 Stage 8: Tokyo
Distance: 104.0km
Start at 11:00
Stages 1 and 8 in Osaka and Tokyo are easily accessible, while Stages 4 in Mino (Gifu) and 6 at Mount Fuji pass through popular tourist destinations. Although it is a stage race, most stages are held on circuit courses, making it easy to watch. If you are a cycling road race fan currently visiting Japan, be sure to catch the action in person! Especially for those visiting from Europe, where cycling races are familiar, this is a great opportunity to experience the Japanese cycling scene.