Takayama City, boasting the largest area in Japan, is 90% mountainous, and the best way to enjoy life in the valleys there is by cycling!
To foster a network of guides who can lead cycling tours in the region, we organized a cycling guide training workshop.
For this, we invited Ryohei Oguchi, a bicycle adventurer who promotes cycling life and community development in Tatsuno Town, Nagano Prefecture. Over two days, in a camp-style format, all 13 participants learned and experienced everything from bicycle maintenance to safe riding and essential guiding skills.
The lectures covered traffic laws, risk management, outdoor first aid, community development guide principles, and outdoor leadership skills.
In the practical sessions, we practiced briefing, riding skills, bicycle safety checks, bicycle maintenance skills, tire tube replacement, and much more, anticipating various scenarios.
The cycling guide training course this time was structured as a guide training program, envisioning a cycling tour connecting the center of Takayama City with the remote Nyukawa area.
After a full day of mental and physical exertion, our empty stomachs were filled by a healthy and satisfying bento from Satori Shokudo in Nyukawa Town, which satisfied both our bodies and our hearts.
For accommodation during the camp, we stayed at Jinen Kominka, a renovated traditional house available for rent in Nyukawa Town. In the comfortable space with a spacious open kitchen, everyone enjoyed a meal together.
Key qualities for a cycling guide are a love for the region, a fondness for people, and a passion for cycling.
These two days brought together such individuals, ranging in age from 20s to 50s, who learned and thought about the region from a shared perspective.
We hope to continue expanding the areas where cycling can be enjoyed.
Please come and enjoy cycling in the Hida region! We will continue to explore the delights of the region through cycling.