【Yowamushi Pedal】 Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Tsuchiura City in Ibaraki Prefecture has recently attracted attention from cyclists and fans of works as a region with deep connections to the popular cycle road race anime “Yowamushi Pedal.” This article comprehensively explains the relationship between Yowamushi Pedal and Tsuchiura City, the details of events held there, and the background of how Tsuchiura City has developed as a cycling mecca.
The Relationship Between Yowamushi Pedal and Tsuchiura City
“Yowamushi Pedal” is a popular manga and anime series by Wataru Watanabe based on competitive cycling. Through collaboration with this work, Tsuchiura City in Ibaraki Prefecture has communicated its cycling culture nationwide.
Why Tsuchiura City Was Chosen
There are several important factors behind why Tsuchiura City was selected as the stage for collaboration with Yowamushi Pedal.
The Existence of Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road
The Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road passing through Tsuchiura City is one of Japan’s largest cycling roads, stretching approximately 180 kilometers. It was designated as a National Cycle Route in 2019 and has become a popular destination visited by numerous cyclists from across Japan and abroad. This favorable environment was a major factor in realizing the collaboration with Yowamushi Pedal.
Opening of PLAYatre Tsuchiura
“PLAYatre TSUCHIURA,” directly connected to JR Tsuchiura Station, began full-scale operations in 2020 as Japan’s largest experiential cycling resort. The facility is fully equipped for cyclists, with rental bicycles, shower facilities, maintenance space, cafes, and more. The existence of this facility has played an important role in establishing Tsuchiura City as a cycling hub.
Yowamushi Pedal Digital Stamp Rally Walk & Ride in Ibaraki
From September 18 to November 30, 2020 (originally planned), the “Yowamushi Pedal Digital Stamp Rally Walk & Ride in Ibaraki” was held in the southern Ibaraki area centered on Tsuchiura City. This event was planned with the goal of restoring vitality to tourist destinations in the prefecture that had been affected by the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Event Overview and Participation Methods
This digital stamp rally was implemented in a modern event format utilizing smartphones. Participants could download a dedicated app, visit designated spots around Tsuchiura City, and collect stamps by scanning AR markers.
Stamp Point Placement
Stamp points were placed along the Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road and at tourist spots, restaurants, cultural facilities, and other locations throughout Tsuchiura City and surrounding areas. This was designed so that participants could discover the charm of Tsuchiura City while touring the region with Yowamushi Pedal characters.
Prizes and Benefits
Generous prizes were prepared for participants based on the number of stamps collected. Particularly popular were clear files featuring original illustrations. By collecting five stamps, participants could receive the original clear file at PLAYatre Tsuchiura.
Additionally, a lottery system offered luxury prizes and local specialty products to participants who collected more stamps, with careful consideration given to stimulating fans’ collecting motivation.
Event Features and Considerations
Flexibility of Walk & Ride
A major feature of this event was the “Walk & Ride” concept. By allowing participation not only by bicycle but also on foot, the event was designed so that cycling beginners, families with children, and people without bicycles could participate easily.
This flexibility successfully encouraged participation from a wide range of people and increased the overall economic effect on the region.
Utilization of Digital Technology
The digital stamp rally using smartphone apps and AR markers had several advantages compared to traditional paper-based stamp rallies. It allowed collection of participant behavior data, enabled real-time information distribution, and made non-contact participation possible—all valued as a new event format during the coronavirus pandemic.
Event Period Changes and Conclusion
Although originally planned to run until November 30, following an announcement from Ibaraki Prefecture on November 27, 2020 requesting reduced outings, the event ended on November 27. This decision prioritized the safety of participants and local residents.
Despite the shortened period, the event attracted many participants and brought certain benefits to tourism promotion in Tsuchiura City and surrounding areas.
Yowamushi Pedal Cycling Team and Tsuchiura City
The “Yowamushi Pedal Cycling Team,” based in Ibaraki Prefecture, participates in various cycling events held in Tsuchiura City and contributes to the development of the region’s cycling culture.
Collaboration with Ibaraki Cyclocross Tsuchiura Stage
The “Ibaraki Cyclocross Tsuchiura Stage” is held in Tsuchiura City as one event in the JCX (All Japan Cyclocross Championship Series). The Yowamushi Pedal Cycling Team also participates in this event and plays a role in enlivening the competition.
Autograph Session by Yowamushi Pedal’s Author
At the 2023 Ibaraki Cyclocross Tsuchiura Stage, “Yowamushi Pedal Charity Sacoche Sales & Autograph Session” was held by Wataru Watanabe, the author of Yowamushi Pedal. This was a valuable opportunity for fans of the work and became an important element in enhancing the value of cycling events in Tsuchiura City.
The proceeds from the charity sacoche sales are utilized for improvements to the cycling environment in the region and support for young athlete development, contributing to sustainable development of cycling culture.
Coexistence with the Community
The Yowamushi Pedal Cycling Team operates under the mission of “From Ibaraki to the World!” and carries out activities rooted in the community. Through activities in Tsuchiura City, they engage in cycling sports promotion, bicycle classes for local children, and environmental conservation activities.
The Role and Function of PLAYatre Tsuchiura
PLAYatre Tsuchiura plays a central role in Tsuchiura City’s development as a cycling mecca.
Facility Features
Comprehensive Equipment for Cyclists
PLAYatre Tsuchiura has various facilities that cyclists can use comfortably.
- Rental Bicycle Service: Various bicycles such as cross bikes and road bikes can be rented at reasonable prices
- Shower and Changing Rooms: Clean facilities for rinsing off sweat after cycling
- Cycle Pit: Space for bicycle maintenance and minor repairs
- Cycle Rack: Parking space for safely storing bicycles
- Cafe and Restaurant: Offers nutritionally balanced menus popular with cyclists
Convenience of Station-Direct Access
Being directly connected to JR Tsuchiura Station means that cyclists arriving by train can immediately rent a bicycle and depart. This design maximizes Tsuchiura City’s geographic advantage with good access from the greater Tokyo area.
Contribution to Regional Revitalization
PLAYatre Tsuchiura goes beyond being merely a cycling facility and significantly contributes to regional economic activation.
Increase in Tourist Numbers
Since the facility’s opening, the number of cyclists visiting Tsuchiura City has steadily increased. These visitors utilize not only cycling but also local restaurants, accommodation facilities, and tourist attractions, bringing positive effects to the entire regional economy.
Hub for Regional Events
The facility functions as a base for various cycling-related events, including collaborations with Yowamushi Pedal. This has created a system for many people to regularly visit Tsuchiura City.
The Charm of Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road
The Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road passing through Tsuchiura City is an important cycling route that became the field for Yowamushi Pedal events.
National Cycle Route Designation
In 2019, the Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road became Japan’s first National Cycle Route designation. This designation resulted from evaluation of the high quality of the cycling environment, the region’s reception capacity, and abundant tourism resources.
Route Characteristics
Diverse Scenery
A major appeal is the varied scenery from the foot of Mount Tsukuba to the shores of Lake Kasumigaura. The approximately 180-kilometer route features various expressions including rural landscapes, lake views, and historic streetscapes.
Suitable for Beginners to Advanced Cyclists
Most sections of the route are relatively flat, allowing beginners to enjoy cycling with confidence. On the other hand, the long distance means advanced cyclists can also enjoy satisfying long rides.
Comprehensive Support Facilities
Rest areas, restrooms, cycle stations, and other facilities are appropriately spaced along the route, providing an environment where cycling can be enjoyed with confidence.
History of Tsuchiura City’s Cycling Culture
Behind Tsuchiura City becoming known as a cycling mecca lies long-term efforts by the community.
Utilization of the Former Tsukuba Railway
Part of the Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road utilizes the railway line of the former Tsukuba Railway, which closed in 1987. This pioneering effort to repurpose a closed railway line as a community resource attracted nationwide attention.
Active Government Support
Tsuchiura City and Ibaraki Prefecture have actively worked on cycling environment improvements. In addition to hard infrastructure investments such as road improvements, signage installation, and cycle station construction, they have provided continuous support in soft aspects such as event hosting support and promotional activities.
Government officials including the Mayor of Tsuchiura have positioned regional revitalization through cycling as an important policy, with the collaboration with Yowamushi Pedal realized as part of this effort.
Community Understanding and Cooperation
Understanding and cooperation from local residents is essential for the development of cycling culture. Tsuchiura City has focused on creating an environment where cyclists and residents can coexist, actively implementing traffic safety education and manner awareness activities.
Economic Effects of the Yowamushi Pedal Collaboration
The collaboration with Yowamushi Pedal has brought various economic effects to Tsuchiura City.
Increase in Tourist Numbers
During the stamp rally event period, the number of tourists visiting Tsuchiura City and surrounding areas increased significantly. In particular, there was an increase in day-trippers from the greater Tokyo area and overnight visitors on weekends, which had positive effects on local accommodation and dining establishments.
Expanded Media Exposure
The event received coverage from numerous media outlets, contributing to increased awareness of Tsuchiura City. Coverage in cycling sports specialist magazines, travel information websites, local newspapers, and other media allowed the city to reach audiences previously unfamiliar with Tsuchiura City.
Enhanced Brand Image
Through collaboration with a popular anime, Tsuchiura City established the brand image of being “a municipality where cycling is approachable and which carries out innovative initiatives.” This is expected to have positive effects on future regional development and promotion of immigration to the area.
Future Prospects and Possibilities
The relationship between Yowamushi Pedal and Tsuchiura City holds potential for ongoing cooperation beyond being a one-time event.
Possibility of New Collaborative Events
Following the success of the 2020 digital stamp rally, new collaborative events may be planned in the future. Seasonal cycling events, character collaboration merchandise sales, and use of the city as the setting for the work are among the various possibilities.
Development of Cycle Tourism
Tsuchiura City aims for further development as a cycle tourism base. Comprehensive efforts are underway including expansion of accommodation facilities, training of cycling guides, and wider cooperation with surrounding regions.
Partnerships with popular content like Yowamushi Pedal will be an important element in enhancing the appeal of cycle tourism.
Promotion of Cycling Among Young People
Collaborations with anime and manga are an effective means of communicating the appeal of cycling to younger generations. Tsuchiura City is focusing on creating opportunities for young people who have become interested in cycling through Yowamushi Pedal to actually start cycling.
Initiatives are also underway including bicycle classes at schools and hosting of junior cycling events, which cultivate next-generation cyclists.
Tips for Visiting Tsuchiura City
Information worth knowing when fans of Yowamushi Pedal and cycling enthusiasts visit Tsuchiura City.
Access Methods
Access by Train
Using the JR Joban Line, it takes about 50 minutes by limited express from Tokyo Station to Tsuchiura Station, or about 1 hour and 20 minutes by regular train. Access by train is extremely convenient with PLAYatre Tsuchiura directly connected to the station.
Access by Car
The downtown area is about 15 minutes from either Sakura Tsuchiura IC or Tsuchiura Kita IC on the Joban Expressway. Parking is available throughout the city including at PLAYatre Tsuchiura.
Recommended Season
The best seasons for cycling are spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November). During these periods, the weather is mild, the scenery around Lake Kasumigaura is beautiful, and comfortable cycling can be enjoyed.
Summer requires heat countermeasures and winter requires cold weather preparations, though each season has its own unique charm.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
There are many attractive tourist attractions around Tsuchiura City in addition to cycling.
- Lake Kasumigaura: A lake with Japan’s second largest surface area where you can relax at the lakeside
- Tsuchiura Castle Ruins: A castle ruin park where history can be felt
- Mount Tsukuba: One of Japan’s 100 famous mountains, offering hiking and mountaintop visits via ropeway
- JAXA Tsukuba Space Center: A facility where the cutting edge of space development can be toured
By combining these attractions, you can create a full travel plan that allows you to enjoy both cycling and sightseeing.
Regional Cuisine
There are many delicious foods to enjoy after cycling in Tsuchiura City and the southern Ibaraki region.
- Lake Fish Dishes: Prepared with fresh lake fish such as smelt and icefish from Lake Kasumigaura
- Hitachi Beef: A premium beef brand boasting Ibaraki
- Lotus Root Dishes: Tsuchiura City is famous as a lotus root producing region
- Tsukuba Udon: Popular noodles in the local area
Restaurants within PLAYatre Tsuchiura also serve menus using local ingredients.
Conclusion
The relationship between Ibaraki Prefecture’s Tsuchiura City and Yowamushi Pedal can be considered a success story of effectively combining a popular anime with regional resources. The digital stamp rally event held in 2020, despite the difficulties of the coronavirus crisis, attracted many participants and contributed to regional revitalization.
The key factors leading to the success of this collaboration were the excellent base facility of PLAYatre Tsuchiura, the attractive Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road cycling route, and community-wide understanding and cooperation regarding cycling culture.
Looking forward, Tsuchiura City is expected to undergo further development as a cycling mecca and as a hub for collaborations with popular content such as Yowamushi Pedal. For cycling enthusiasts and anime fans alike, Tsuchiura City has become an appealing destination worth visiting.
Tsuchiura City, where you can experience the world of Yowamushi Pedal while enjoying beautiful nature, comprehensive facilities, and delicious food. Please visit once and experience its charm firsthand.
