Great Earth Furano
Great Earth Furano Ride: A Pedal Through Hokkaido’s Hidden Gems
Imagine a place where the air is so fresh it feels like it’s been bottled straight from the heavens, where fields of lavender seem to stretch into eternity, and mountains rise up like friendly giants inviting you to play. That place is Furano, and once a year, it becomes the backdrop for one of the most delightful cycling events in Japan—the Great Earth Furano Ride. If you’re the sort of person who prefers two wheels to four and enjoys breathing in nature as much as you do pedaling through it, then you’re in for a treat. In 2024, the event marked its 16th anniversary, and what better way to celebrate than by taking in Hokkaido’s scenic splendor?
What to Expect on the Ride
Let’s start with the basics. The Great Earth Furano Ride is not your typical high-stress, fast-paced race where everyone wears spandex like they’re auditioning for the next superhero movie. It’s a relaxed ride that invites you to embrace the landscape. Cyclists glide through patchwork farmlands, aromatic forests, and iconic spots like the rolling hills of Biei and the postcard-perfect views of Kamifurano. The ride is as much about stopping as it is about cycling—rest stops along the way offer local treats like steaming bowls of miso soup, refreshingly crisp pickled melons, and cheese so fresh it practically moos. And while you’re taking a break and munching on the region’s flavors, you’re also soaking in the lush, unspoiled countryside of Hokkaido.
For families and casual cyclists, this is no race to the finish line. The event caters to people who prefer to experience nature at a leisurely pace, taking in all the natural beauty and fresh air Hokkaido has to offer. It’s a celebration of cycling and scenery, not speed. The camaraderie is palpable, and the shared enthusiasm for being outside makes it feel more like a festive day out than an athletic competition.
Event Details: What You Need to Know
Dates and Location
The ride usually happens in June, when Furano is at its greenest and most gorgeous. It starts and finishes at the Furano Regional Human Resources Development Center—an unimpressive name for a place that acts as the gateway to this unforgettable adventure.
Courses and Costs
For the masochists—I mean, dedicated cyclists—there’s the Long Course, a hearty 105 km trek that will leave your legs burning but your heart full. For those who prefer to take it a bit easier, there’s the 59 km Short Course, which still packs plenty of scenic punch. The Long Course will set adults back ¥12,000, while the Short Course comes in at ¥8,000. If you’re bringing kids along (good for you!), there are reduced fees for high school students and younger.
What’s Included?
Your entry fee isn’t just for the privilege of pedaling around paradise. You also get a race bib, a snazzy commemorative T-shirt, a completion certificate to prove you did it, insurance (just in case you take an unplanned detour), and access to the aid stations where you can refill your energy with local delicacies.
Eligibility and Schedule
Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to participate—though you do need to be healthy enough to cycle for a few hours. Helmets are a must, of course, and if you’re an elementary school student, you’ll need to bring a parent along for the ride. High schoolers can participate solo, but only with written parental consent.
Here’s how the day unfolds:
- 6:00 AM: The parking lot opens (with space for 500 cars).
- 7:00 AM: Registration begins, and excitement builds.
- 8:00 AM: The Long Course kicks off—cue the more adventurous riders.
- 9:00 AM: The Short Course gets going for those looking for a lighter challenge.
- 3:00 PM: All riders are expected to reach the finish line by this time—though if you’re still pedaling at 3:01, I doubt anyone will hold it against you.
Scenic Stops: Because it’s not just about the biking
The aid stations along the way are worth the ride in themselves. On the Long Course, there are four stops, including Rokugo Village Center, Hinode Park, and Kasugadai Parking Lot—each offering scenic views and snacks that’ll make you glad you took the break. The Short Course riders also get their share of pit stops, with two well-placed stations to keep spirits high and legs strong.
Safety First (and Second, and Third)
As with any well-organized event, safety is a priority. Participants are covered by basic accident insurance, but it’s recommended to get additional coverage if you’re the cautious type. Riders are required to follow all traffic rules, and it’s crucial to stay aware of the vehicles on the road—this is not the Tour de France, and you’re sharing the road with everyday drivers. Some may even be tourists unfamiliar with the area, so stay alert, keep right, and ride safe.
Traffic and Road Considerations
Cyclists are expected to ride in a way that doesn’t disrupt traffic—so no swerving or taking up more of the road than necessary. And if you’re caught behaving dangerously or hogging the road, you might be asked to leave the event. There’s also the matter of the local residents, whose hospitality makes this event possible. Be polite, be respectful, and make sure your ride doesn’t become their inconvenience.
Extra Tips for Navigating Furano and Biei
Now, a word of caution: Furano and Biei are popular tourist spots, and during the event, you’ll likely be sharing the roads with a few wide-eyed visitors, many of them in rental cars. Some of them might not have the best grasp of the local road rules, so it’s on you to ride smart and stay safe. Always be aware of your surroundings, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Great Earth Furano Ride is more than just a cycling event. It’s an invitation to experience one of Japan’s most beautiful regions in a way that connects you to the land, the people, and the moment. Whether you’re a veteran cyclist or someone who only dusts off the bike for the occasional weekend jaunt, the combination of nature, culture, and camaraderie makes this ride a memory-maker. You’ll pedal past sights you can’t see anywhere else, savor foods you’ll crave long after the ride is over, and finish the day with a sense of accomplishment and awe.
So dust off your bike, lace up your shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. Your legs may be tired at the end, but your spirit will be soaring.
Furano Ride Long Course 105km
Furano Ride Short Course 59km
*The courses may be subject to change for safety reasons.