🙂 Cyclist A: Excited companions experiencing these routes for the first time
🤓 Cyclist B: Expert guide who has ridden these routes many times
Combining bicycles with RV travel allows you to fully enjoy Hokkaido’s pristine nature. This time we introduce 5 recommended cycling roads in the central and southern Hokkaido areas with loop courses. Let’s embark on a special journey feeling the refreshing lakeside winds, mountain foothills’ spectacular views, and forest fragrances!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can I safely load my bicycle?
A1. We recommend using rear hatch racks or rear carriers with anti-slip mats, combined with bike bags for frame protection and securing.
Q2. What are the recommended routes in central and southern Hokkaido?
A2. We recommend 5 courses: Mt. Yotei Loop Course, Lake Toya Loop Course, Onuma Park Loop Course, Lake Shikotsu Loop Course, and Mt. Hakodate Foothills Cycling Course.
Q3. What maintenance should I check before riding?
A3. Don’t forget to check tire pressure, brake pad condition, chain lubrication, and the operation of safety equipment like lights, helmets, and gloves.
| Benefits of Enjoying Cycling with an RV | ||
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Flexible Itinerary
RVs are mobile accommodation facilities. You can stay wherever you like, allowing immediate rest after cycling.
Example: After cycling mountain courses, you can stay on-site and move to different routes the next morning. Efficiently enjoy multiple courses without booking accommodations or travel hassles.
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| 2 |
Easy Bicycle Loading
RVs allow easy loading of multiple bicycles. You can also transport dirty bikes after cycling without worry.
Example: Load the whole family’s bikes for weekend trips. Even after riding in rain, you can store dirty bikes directly in the storage space without hassle.
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| 3 |
No Luggage Worries
Can carry plenty of food, spare clothes, and repair tools. Enjoy cycling with light equipment.
Example: Even on long-distance cycling, you can ride with minimal gear. Spare clothing, tools, and supplies can be left in the RV, allowing light and free riding.
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- 1. Mt. Yotei Loop Course – Panoramic Ride Viewing the Famous Peak
- 2. Lake Toya Loop Course – Enjoy Lakeside Spectacular Views and Hot Springs
- 3. Onuma Park Loop Course – Exhilarating Ride Touring Mt. Komagatake and Lake Spectacular Views
- 4. Lake Shikotsu Loop Course – Journey Surrounded by Lake and Primeval Forest Natural Beauty
- 5. Mt. Hakodate Foothills Cycling Course – Loop Route Enjoying Nature and Views
- Conclusion: Comfortable Cycling Travel with RVs!
1. Mt. Yotei Loop Course – Panoramic Ride Viewing the Famous Peak
An approximately 42km loop course circling Mt. Yotei, also called “Ezo Fuji.” You can enjoy the beautiful mountain’s appearance from various angles, and natural spring spots are scattered throughout, allowing you to savor nature’s blessings.
- Optimal Season: May to October
- Distance and Duration: About 42km / 2-3 hours
- Model Route:
Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza → Mt. Yotei Loop → Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza
Highlights
- Pastoral landscapes viewing Mt. Yotei
- Refresh at natural spring spots (selected as one of Japan’s 100 famous waters)
Parking Spots
- Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza: Has dedicated RV spaces. You can also enjoy local vegetables and gourmet food.
Cycle Pit & Rest Points
- Rest areas available at roadside stations and natural spring spots.
Precautions
- Gentle ups and downs exist, so geared bicycles are recommended.
2. Lake Toya Loop Course – Enjoy Lakeside Spectacular Views and Hot Springs
An approximately 36km flat loop course around Lake Toya. While riding along the lakeside, beautiful lake surfaces and surrounding mountain scenery spread out. After finishing your ride, relaxing in hot springs is one of the joys.
- Optimal Season: May to October
- Distance and Duration: About 36km / 2-3 hours
- Model Route:
Roadside Station Toya Lake → Lake Toya Loop → Roadside Station Toya Lake
Highlights
- Spectacular views of Mt. Usu and Showa-shinzan from the lakeside
- Sunsets reflecting on the lake surface are exceptional
Parking Spots
- Roadside Station Toya Lake: RV parking available. Complete with local specialty sales and toilets.
Cycle Pit & Rest Points
- Rest benches and public toilets scattered along the lakeside.
Precautions
- Lakeside roads can be congested during tourist season, so be careful.
3. Onuma Park Loop Course – Exhilarating Ride Touring Mt. Komagatake and Lake Spectacular Views
An approximately 14km course looping around Onuma Quasi-National Park, one of southern Hokkaido’s premier tourist destinations. Relatively flat, you can enjoy cycling while viewing Mt. Komagatake reflected on the lake surface and scattered small islands.
- Optimal Season: April to November (especially beautiful during autumn foliage)
- Distance and Duration: About 14km / 1.5-2 hours
- Model Route:
Onuma Park Parking → Onuma Lakeside Loop → Onuma Park Parking
Highlights
- Magnificent Mt. Komagatake viewed from the lakeside
- Bridges and small islands visible during cycling
Parking Spots
- Onuma Park Parking: RV parking available. Bicycle rentals also available.
Cycle Pit & Rest Points
- Benches and toilets complete along the lakeside. Many restaurants around the park area.
Precautions
- During busy tourist times, practice safe riding.
4. Lake Shikotsu Loop Course – Journey Surrounded by Lake and Primeval Forest Natural Beauty
An approximately 40km loop course running along Lake Shikotsu. The highly transparent lake water and beautiful primeval forest are attractive, and you can enjoy pleasant forest bathing while cycling.
- Optimal Season: May to October
- Distance and Duration: About 40km / 2.5-3.5 hours
- Model Route:
Lake Shikotsu Morappu Parking → Lake Shikotsu Loop → Lake Shikotsu Morappu Parking
Highlights
- Beautiful lake surface and magnificent scenery of Lake Shikotsu
- Exhilarating feeling of riding through primeval forest
Parking Spots
- Lake Shikotsu Parking: Campgrounds with RV parking available by the lakeside.
Cycle Pit & Rest Points
- Restaurants and rest areas maintained along the lakeside.
Precautions
- Bear warning signs present, so check information in advance and take safety measures.
5. Mt. Hakodate Foothills Cycling Course – Loop Route Enjoying Nature and Views
An approximately 15km loop course around the foothills of Mt. Hakodate. You can enjoy lush green scenery and views of Hakodate city, with cafes and tourist spots scattered along the way.
- Optimal Season: April to November
- Distance and Duration: About 15km / 2-3 hours
- Model Route:
- Mt. Hakodate Ropeway Base Station → Tachimachi Cape → Yachigashira Onsen → Mt. Hakodate Ropeway Base Station
Highlights:
- Tachimachi Cape: Spectacular views of Tsugaru Strait.
- Yachigashira Onsen: Hot spring facility popular with locals.
- Mt. Hakodate Ropeway: Famous for night views from the summit.
Parking Spots:
- Mt. Hakodate Ropeway Base Station Parking: RV-compatible parking available.
Cycle Pit & Rest Points:
- Rest spaces and restaurants available around Tachimachi Cape and Yachigashira Onsen areas.
Precautions:
- Some hills present, so we recommend riding with appropriately geared bicycles.
| 4 Key Points for Enjoying Cycling | |
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Adjust Plans According to Distance
Set turning points for long-distance courses and adjust to distances matching your fitness level.
Aim for 20-30km for beginners, 40-60km for intermediate riders. Don’t push yourself if you feel tired – it’s important to finish shorter than planned. Recording distances with smartphone cycling apps helps plan future rides.
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Check Routes in Advance
Some courses have narrow sections or mixed areas with pedestrians, requiring caution.
Check route maps before departure and understand dangerous spots and restricted sections. For first-time courses especially, use GPS navigation or cycling map apps to confirm your location while riding. Note confusing intersections in advance for peace of mind.
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Know Supply Points
Check locations of rest areas and vending machines in advance for peace of mind.
We recommend identifying convenience stores, roadside stations, and parks with toilet and rest facilities at 10-15km intervals. Hydration is especially important in summer, so carry spare water and take frequent breaks. Some areas have few vending machines, so always confirm multiple supply points for long distances.
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Confirm Bicycle Parking at Tourist Sites
Research safe bicycle parking locations at tourist sites in advance.
Popular tourist spots may have full bicycle parking. Check multiple parking options when possible. If no public parking exists, use designated areas at tourist facilities or nearby cafes with bike racks. For expensive bicycles, bring sturdy locks and park in well-trafficked areas.
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Conclusion: Comfortable Cycling Travel with RVs!
Hokkaido cycling trips based from RVs are attractive for allowing you to enjoy nature to the fullest without worrying about time. Loop and round-trip courses around Mt. Yotei, Lake Shikotsu, and Onuma Park provide peace of mind for preparation and return journeys. Seeking beautiful seasonal scenery, enjoy the ultimate trip with your bicycle!
