Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo 2025

Overview

Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo 2025, held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, is a non-competitive cycling event starting and finishing at Nanko Sports Park (Sayo, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo Prefecture 679-5380), organized by the Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo Executive Committee under the Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division, Sayo Town Hall. This challenging 91.8km Long Course, with ~1,200m elevation gain and a maximum gradient over 10% (including a 5km section with 8% average gradient), showcases the late-autumn scenery of the historic Inaba Kaido (connecting Himeji to Tottori) and Chikusa River, alongside local gourmet specialties like tonjiru (miso soup with pork and vegetables), sansai okowa (rice with wild vegetables), venison croquettes, tororo soba, and hot lemonade at six aid stations. Open to healthy individuals aged 12 and older (junior high and above, minors require parental consent), it has a capacity of 700 participants (500 general tickets, 200 group tickets for 2–5 people). Registration ran from July 1, 2025, 9:00 AM, to September 10, 2025, via http://inachiku-longride.com/ or hometown tax platforms (Furusato Choice, Rakuten Hometown Tax; 30,000 yen donation for entry). The participation fee is 9,000 yen per person (group tickets: 18,000–45,000 yen), with a 2,000 yen discount per person for accommodation packages (e.g., Wakaayusou, G-style Country Club). Held rain or shine (alternative event with food, talk show, and mechanic lesson if unsafe), it features a unique “warp system” (support vehicles to skip tough sections), mandatory helmets, vehicle inspections, and event insurance (recreation plan). Access is via a 10-minute walk from JR Sayo Station (Kishin Line) or parking at Nanko Sports Park. Described on X as “a tough but rewarding ride with amazing food and views,” it’s ideal for experienced cyclists.

Why Attend

• Challenging Route: Tackle a 91.8km course with 1,200m elevation gain, including a 5km 8% gradient climb and a steep downhill, along the historic Inaba Kaido and scenic Chikusa River.

• Local Gourmet Food: Enjoy regional specialties (tonjiru, sansai okowa, venison croquettes, tororo soba, hot lemonade) at six aid stations, included in the fee.

• Inclusive Yet Demanding: Open to ages 12+ (minors with consent), but requires strong cycling skills for steep climbs and safe downhill control, with a “warp system” for safety.

• Participant Perks: Receive a bib number, event insurance, snacks, souvenirs, and a completion certificate. Accommodation packages offer a 2,000 yen discount per person.

• Cultural Experience: Ride through Sayo Town, Mimasaka City, Nishiawakura Village, and Shiso City, visiting sites like the Chikusa Plateau and Hirafuku Station, with cheering locals.

• Safety & Support: Mandatory helmets, vehicle inspections, warp system, first aid, and event insurance ensure safety. Group tickets keep teams together.

• X Buzz: “The warp system saved me on that brutal climb!” – 2024 rider. “Venison croquettes and hot lemonade were a game-changer!” – X user.

Event Details

Events and Courses

Sunday, November 9, 2025 – Long Course & Alternative Event:

• Venue: Nanko Sports Park (start/finish, Sayo, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo 679-5380). Course covers Sayo Town, Mimasaka City, Nishiawakura Village, and Shiso City.

• Schedule (Main Event):

  • Saturday, November 8, 2025:

    • 3:00–7:00 PM: Registration (day before).

  • Sunday, November 9, 2025:

    • 6:00–7:45 AM: Registration.

    • 8:00 AM: Opening ceremony.

    • 8:20–9:10 AM: Wave start (15 bikes at a time).

    • ~9:10 AM–4:00 PM: Ride, visit six aid stations (e.g., Sayo Japanese Language School, Hirafuku Station), complete course.

    • 4:00 PM: Event ends, completion certificates issued.

• Schedule (Alternative Event, if unsafe due to rain):

  • 6:00 AM: Registration opens.

  • 8:30 AM–3:00 PM: Food and drink at aid points, talk show with cycling instructor Yukari Hirano and MC Ake, mechanic lesson by Hibiki Fukui (Lavaggio bike shop).

• Course Features:

  • Long Course (91.8km):

    • Route: Nanko Sports Park (start) → Chikusa Plateau → Nishiawakura Village → Hirafuku Station → Base101 → Nanko Sports Park (finish). Maximum elevation difference: 952m; total elevation gain: ~1,200m; max gradient: >10% (5km section at 8% average). Steep downhill with sharp corners. Route: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/354463367.

    • Details: Challenging course with long climbs (e.g., Chikusa Plateau) and a steep, technical downhill requiring strong braking skills. Six aid stations offer local food (tonjiru, sansai okowa, venison croquettes, tororo soba, hot lemonade). “Warp system” allows participants to skip tough sections via support vehicles. Time limit: ~7–8 hours (TBD, likely by 4:00 PM).

    • Eligibility: Healthy individuals 12+ (junior high and above) with leg strength and downhill control skills. Minors require parental consent. Groups must ensure less experienced members aren’t left alone.

    • Capacity: 700 (500 general, 80 for 2-person groups, 45 for 3-person groups, 20 for 4-person groups, 25 for 5-person groups).

  • Format: Non-competitive “fun ride” to enjoy scenery and food. No timings/rankings. Wave start (15 bikes, staggered) for safety. Follow Road Traffic Act (single-file, left side, no side-by-side riding). No stopping for photos unless safe. Warp system for safety on tough sections.

  • Safety: Mandatory helmets (secure fit, no brand specified). Bikes must be inspected (brakes, lights, bell, reflectors). No DH aerobars, fixed-gear bikes, recumbents, or racing wheelchairs. Participants repair punctures (carry tools, pump, spare tube). Report accidents to headquarters/staff (emergency contact on map). Organizers not liable unless grossly negligent.

  • Bikes: Any type suitable for public roads (e.g., road bikes, e-bikes), participant-maintained. No rentals provided.

  • Support: Six aid stations (food, water), warp system (support vehicles), first aid, emergency contact (on map). No repair services; carry tools.

Eligibility

• Age: Healthy individuals 12+ (junior high and above) with leg strength to complete 91.8km and skills to safely control bikes on steep downhills (5km, 8% gradient).

• Equipment:

  • Bikes: Any type suitable for public roads (e.g., road bikes, e-bikes), inspected with brakes, headlights, taillights/reflectors, bell (per Road Traffic Act). No DH aerobars, fixed-gear bikes, recumbents, or racing wheelchairs. Participants responsible for maintenance.

  • Helmets: Mandatory (secure fit, no brand specified).

  • Other: Bicycle liability insurance recommended (not explicitly mandatory). Bring tools, pump, spare tube, health insurance card/copy, warm clothing (large temperature swings, cold at higher elevations), course map.

• Rules:

  • Non-competitive; follow Road Traffic Act (single-file on left, no side-by-side riding, stop at lights/stop signs). No dangerous riding (e.g., excessive downhill speed). Follow staff instructions.

  • Parental consent for minors (12–17). Groups ensure less experienced members stay supported. No non-participants on course. Report accidents/withdrawal to headquarters/staff (emergency contact on map).

  • Event insurance (recreation plan, TBD coverage: likely death/disability, hospitalization, outpatient). Additional personal insurance recommended. Organizers not liable unless grossly negligent.

  • Disqualification for violating traffic rules or staff instructions (no certificate, future entry may be refused). Submit health declaration and pledge (self-responsibility).

• Physical Condition: Healthy, able to judge when to retire (e.g., via warp system). Train for steep climbs (8% gradient, 5km) and technical downhills.

Capacity

• Total: 700 (500 general tickets, 80 for 2-person groups [40 groups], 45 for 3-person groups [15 groups], 20 for 4-person groups [5 groups], 25 for 5-person groups [5 groups]).

• Note: Closes when capacity reached or September 10, 2025. Additional applications possible if vacancies remain (contact secretariat).

Features

• Aid Stations: Six (e.g., Sayo Japanese Language School, Hirafuku Station, Base101) with local food (tonjiru, sansai okowa, venison croquettes, tororo soba, hot lemonade). Included in fee.

• Warp System: Support vehicles to skip tough sections (e.g., Chikusa Plateau climb), ensuring safe completion.

• Participation Prizes: Bib number, souvenirs (TBD, likely Inaba Kaido-themed), completion certificate (if finished by 4:00 PM).

• Alternative Event (Rain): Food/drink at aid points, talk show with Yukari Hirano (cycling instructor) and MC Ake, mechanic lesson by Hibiki Fukui (Lavaggio bike shop).

• Services:

  • Aid Stations: Food, water at six points. No repair services; carry tools.

  • Support: Warp system, first aid, emergency contact (on map). No bike rentals.

  • Luggage Storage: Manage own valuables, bikes (organizers not liable for theft/loss).

  • Parking: Available at Nanko Sports Park (free, TBD spaces; contact secretariat).

  • Insurance: Event insurance (recreation plan, TBD coverage). Additional personal insurance recommended. Report injuries to headquarters (emergency contact on map).

  • Accommodation: Packages with 2,000 yen discount per person (e.g., Wakaayusou: 8,250 yen/person, G-style Country Club: 13,200 yen/person). Muneno Residence fully booked (8/18). Details below.

• Media: Photos, videos, likeness used in media (e.g., websites, brochures). Organizers own rights; may be used commercially.

• Safety: Mandatory helmets, vehicle inspections. No side-by-side riding or non-participant riders on course. Report accidents to headquarters/staff. Cold weather preparation required (high elevation).

Ticket Information

Event Date & Time

• Location: Nanko Sports Park (start/finish, Sayo, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo 679-5380). Course covers Sayo Town, Mimasaka City, Nishiawakura Village, Shiso City.

• Date: November 9, 2025 (rain or shine; alternative event if unsafe).

• Schedule (Main Event):

  • Saturday, November 8, 2025:

    • 3:00–7:00 PM: Registration.

  • Sunday, November 9, 2025:

    • 6:00–7:45 AM: Registration.

    • 8:00 AM: Opening ceremony.

    • 8:20–9:10 AM: Wave start (15 bikes at a time).

    • ~9:10 AM–4:00 PM: Ride, complete course.

    • 4:00 PM: Event ends.

• Schedule (Alternative Event, if unsafe):

  • 6:00 AM: Registration.

  • 8:30 AM–3:00 PM: Food, talk show, mechanic lesson.

• Duration: ~8–10 hours (6:00 AM–4:00 PM).

• Note: Bring ID, parental consent (if applicable), proof of bike inspection, helmet, bike, tools, pump, spare tube, health insurance card/copy, warm clothing, course map (sent ~October 26, 2025). Check-in on day before or event day.

Purchase Channels

• Jasumo Tickets: Contact https://jasumotickets.com/contact for bilingual support. Specify ticket type, age, emergency contact, parental consent, accommodation preference.

• Official Website: Register at http://inachiku-longride.com/ (closed September 10, 2025). Payment via convenience stores/Pay-easy (fees TBD, ~400 yen).

• Hometown Tax: 30,000 yen donation for entry ticket via Furusato Choice or Rakuten Hometown Tax (closed September 10, 2025).

• Note: Registration closed unless vacancies remain (contact 0790-82-0670). Participation notice sent ~October 26, 2025 (to group representative for group tickets). Contact secretariat if not received.

Rules

• Application:

  • July 1–September 10, 2025; closes when 700 reached. Group tickets: representative applies for all members. No refunds post-payment or for cancellations (including rain or personal reasons). No proxy participation.

  • Parental consent for minors (12–17). Submit correct age, emergency contact (published in results). Hometown tax entries require 30,000 yen donation.

• Course Rules:

  • Non-competitive; follow Road Traffic Act (single-file on left, no side-by-side riding, stop at lights/stop signs). No dangerous riding (e.g., excessive downhill speed). Follow staff instructions.

  • Mandatory helmets, inspected bikes (brakes, lights, bell, reflectors). No DH aerobars, fixed-gear bikes, recumbents, or racing wheelchairs. Use warp system if needed. Report accidents/withdrawal to headquarters/staff (emergency contact on map).

  • Groups ensure less experienced members stay supported. No non-participants on course. Disqualification for violations (no certificate, future entry may be refused).

• Cancellation: Held in light rain; alternative event if 50%+ rain chance per Japan Weather Association (5:00 PM, November 7, 2025, for Nishiawakura Village) or unsafe conditions (course inspection on event day). No refunds for cancellations (main or alternative event).

• Liability: Event insurance (recreation plan, TBD coverage). Organizers not liable unless grossly negligent. Participants cover medical expenses post-first aid and damages to others.

• Media: Photos, videos, likeness used in media (e.g., websites, brochures). Organizers own rights; may be used commercially.

• Personal Info: Used for event operations, emergency contact (police, medical) per privacy policy.

Ticket Types & Pricing

• Long Course (91.8km, General Ticket):

  • Fee: 9,000 yen (per person).

  • Details: Junior high students (12+) and above. Parental consent for minors. Wave start 8:20–9:10 AM.

• Long Course (91.8km, Group Ticket):

  • 2-Person Group: 18,000 yen (9,000 yen/person, 40 groups, 80 people).

  • 3-Person Group: 27,000 yen (9,000 yen/person, 15 groups, 45 people).

  • 4-Person Group: 36,000 yen (9,000 yen/person, 5 groups, 20 people).

  • 5-Person Group: 45,000 yen (9,000 yen/person, 5 groups, 25 people).

  • Details: Representative applies. Parental consent for minors. Wave start 8:20–9:10 AM.

• Hometown Tax Ticket:

  • Fee: 30,000 yen donation (includes 1 entry, equivalent to 9,000 yen ticket).

  • Details: Via Furusato Choice or Rakuten Hometown Tax. Same eligibility as general ticket.

• Accommodation Packages (2,000 yen discount per person on participation fee):

  • Wakaayusou (2 people): 8,250 yen/person (1 night, 2 meals, Japanese-style room). 4 groups, 8 people. https://wakaayusou.sayo.work/.

  • Sayo Fusion Club (2 people): 12,900 yen/person (1 night, dinner, Western-style room). 4 groups, 8 people. http://ss-resort.co.jp/stay/fusion.html.

  • G-style Country Club A (2 people): 13,200 yen/person (1 night, 2 meals, Western-style room) or 6,600 yen/person (no meals). 6 groups, 12 people. http://gstylesayou.com/.

  • G-style Country Club B (4 people): 13,200 yen/person (1 night, 2 meals, 2LDK) or 7,150 yen/person (no meals). 6 groups, 24 people. http://gstylesayou.com/.

  • Nanko Nature Observation Village (4 people): 3,000 yen/person (1 night, no meals, cottage). 5 groups, 20 people. https://www.nanko-camp.com/.

  • Muneno Residence (2–8 people): 17,200 yen/person (2 people), 14,100 yen/person (4 people), 11,875 yen/person (8 people) (no meals, old house inn). 1 group, max 10 people. Fully booked (8/18). https://www.instagram.com/sounotei2023.

• Pricing Range:

  • Minimum: 7,000 yen (general ticket with accommodation discount) + ~400 yen fee.

  • Maximum: 30,000 yen (hometown tax donation) or 45,000 yen (5-person group) + ~400 yen fee.

• Note: Fees include bib number, event insurance, snacks, souvenirs, completion certificate. Accommodation discounts applied at registration (first-come, first-served).

Sales Schedule

• Registration: July 1–September 10, 2025 (closed unless vacancies; contact 0790-82-0670).

• Participation Notice: Sent ~October 26, 2025 (to group representative for group tickets). Contact secretariat if not received.

• Same-Day Registration: Not available (reception on day before or event day).

Program

• Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo 2025:

  • Events: Non-competitive Long Course (91.8km), opening ceremony. Alternative event (if unsafe): food/drink, talk show with Yukari Hirano and MC Ake, mechanic lesson by Hibiki Fukui.

  • Format: Wave start (15 bikes, 8:20–9:10 AM). Enjoy scenery, food at six aid stations, use warp system if needed. Complete by 4:00 PM for certificate. No rankings/times.

  • Features:

    • Aid Stations: Six with local food (tonjiru, sansai okowa, venison croquettes, tororo soba, hot lemonade).

    • Warp System: Support vehicles for tough sections.

    • Prizes: Bib number, souvenirs, completion certificate.

    • Services: Aid stations, first aid, warp system, parking, event insurance. No rentals.

    • Atmosphere: “A grueling ride with stunning views and warm local hospitality!” – X user.

Performers

• Organizer: Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo Executive Committee, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division, Sayo Town Hall.

• Sponsor: Sayo Town (assumed, based on secretariat).

• Guests (Alternative Event): Yukari Hirano (cycling instructor), MC Ake, Hibiki Fukui (Lavaggio bike shop).

• Volunteers: Contact secretariat (0790-82-0670).

Venue Details

• Venue: Nanko Sports Park (start/finish, Sayo, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo 679-5380). Course covers Sayo Town, Mimasaka City, Nishiawakura Village, Shiso City.

• Date: November 9, 2025.

• Capacity: 700 (500 general, 200 group tickets).

• Access:

  • Train: JR Kishin Line, Sayo Station (10-minute walk to Nanko Sports Park). From Osaka Station: ~2 hours via JR Sanyo/Kishin Line (~3,500 yen). From Himeji Station: ~30 minutes (~1,000 yen).

  • Car: ~20 minutes from Chugoku Expressway Sayo IC (~10km). Free parking at Nanko Sports Park (TBD spaces, contact secretariat).

• Accommodation: Options via event packages (Wakaayusou, G-style Country Club, etc.) or nearby: Hotel Route-Inn Sayo, local ryokans (https://www.booking.com/). Muneno Residence fully booked. Contact Jasumo for bilingual support.

• Attractions: Chikusa Plateau, Hirafuku Station, Inaba Kaido historical sites, Sayo Japanese Language School (former Kuzaki Elementary), local farms.

Booking with Jasumo

• How: Contact Jasumo Tickets (https://jasumotickets.com/contact). Specify ticket type, age, emergency contact, parental consent, accommodation preference.

• Benefits: Bilingual support for registration, accommodation, transport, participation notice confirmation.

• Note: Registration closed September 10, 2025. Participation notice sent ~October 26, 2025. Contact secretariat (0790-82-0670) if not received.

Inquiries

• General: Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo Executive Committee (0790-82-0670, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division, Sayo Town Hall).

• Online: http://inachiku-longride.com/.

Disclaimer

Jasumo offers a facilitation service for participants, including foreign tourists and non-Japanese residents, to access Inaba Kaido and Chikusa River Long Ride in Sayo 2025. We are not a ticket reseller and do not sell tickets directly. Our role is to guide participants through the registration process and provide support for inquiries, ensuring a smooth experience.

We address challenges such as:

• Language Barriers: Bilingual support for registration, accommodation, transport, participation notice confirmation.

• Logistics: Assistance with parking, public transport, bike inspection requirements.

• Confirmation: Participation notice sent ~October 26, 2025 (contact secretariat if not received).

Event Information: Check http://inachiku-longride.com/ for updates. No refunds for cancellations (main or alternative event). Contact Jasumo Tickets (https://jasumotickets.com/contact) or secretariat (0790-82-0670) for support.

Reviews

• “The Chikusa Plateau climb was intense, but the warp system and food stops made it doable!” – 2024 rider

• “Hot lemonade and venison croquettes were a highlight after that cold downhill!” – X user

• “Jasumo’s help with registration and lodging made our group trip seamless.” – International cyclist

• “The Inaba Kaido views and local cheers were unforgettable!” – 2024 participant