Ishikawa Prefecture Unveils 35 Cycling Model Courses to Promote Sustainable Tourism and Infrastructure
Ishikawa Prefecture’s official tourism website has launched a collection of 35 curated cycling model courses, emphasizing eco-friendly exploration across the Noto Peninsula, Kanazawa, Kaga, and other regions. These routes integrate well-developed bike paths, including Japan Eco Track-certified paths like the 163km Oku-Noto loop and the unique Noto Satohama Cycling Route with its bikeable sandy beaches. Designed for e-bikes and standard cycles, they highlight cultural heritage, coastal scenery, and local cuisine, positioning cycling as a key pillar of sustainable transportation.
Background
The “Hot Ishikawa Tabi Netto” tourism portal features these cycling routes under its model course section, filtered specifically for “cycling tours” (サイクリング周遊). Ranging from short urban loops like the 3-hour Wajima City Street Course—exploring traditional crafts and morning markets—to multi-hour adventures such as the 24km Hakui Full Enjoyment Course with beach cycling and space-themed attractions, the routes leverage Ishikawa’s infrastructure investments. Notable highlights include the Noto Satohama Cycling Route (34.5km, Japan Eco Track certified), allowing riders to pedal along sea breezes and Japan’s only bike-accessible sand beaches, and longer challenges like the Wheel Island Oku-Noto Circuit (163km with 1,411m elevation gain). These paths connect historical sites (e.g., castle ruins, soy sauce breweries in Kanazawa’s Ono area) with natural wonders, supported by e-bike-friendly gradients and service areas. This initiative aligns with global trends in cycling infrastructure, promoting low-carbon tourism amid Japan’s push for sustainable mobility.
Future Outlook
As Japan advances its green transportation goals, Ishikawa’s cycling courses could expand with enhanced bike-sharing stations, international signage, and integration into national eco-track networks. Increased promotion via multilingual apps and partnerships (e.g., with Japan Eco Track) may attract overseas cyclists, boosting local economies while reducing vehicle emissions. Local policies might prioritize further path maintenance, e-bike subsidies, and events to position Ishikawa as a premier cycling destination in Asia.