NISEKO and its surrounds boasts some of the best road cycling in Japan. Among locals there is a thriving cycling scene and the number of cyclists and triathletes choosing Niseko as a destination for a training holiday is growing rapidly.
The roads all over Hokkaido are immaculately maintained, with super smooth asphalt and wide lanes. Traffic volumes, especially around Niseko, are very light. Drivers are generally very considerate of cyclist and give ample room when passing.
NAC founder Ross Findlay has been working to make Niseko the centre of road cycling in Japan. The Tour de Hokkaido is Japan’s premiere cycling road race and often passes through Niseko. Nisade hosted the first ever Niseko Triathlon Camp in September 2009, and attendees declared they’d found “Asia’s Boulder”, in reference to the famous US endurance sports hub.
Summer in Hokkaido is perfect for endurance training, with tempratures in the mid 20’s, low humidity and no rainy season. Niseko’s air quality is like it’s snow – about as good as it gets.
The triathletes are catered for with a great range of running courses and a quiet 25m lap pool in the Alpen Hotel and two picturesque lakes nearby.
Key Events for 2010:
Kutchan to Goshiki Hill Climb, August 8 – A 15km race as part of the Potato festival (Jaga Matsuri) on August 8. The winners get their weight in local potatoes.
Niseko Cycle Week, September 10-20 – See details below and at www.nisekocycleweek.com
Niseko Tri Camp, September 2010 – A four-five day camp for triathletes of all levels run by internationally renowned triathlete athlete and coach, Kevin Clark. See www.nisekotri.com
Tour de Hokkaido, September 16-20 – Amateur and professional stage race. www.tour-de-hokkaido.or.jp