Iiyama Satoyama Gravel Route

Starting from Iiyama Station, you’ll ease into the ride by connecting paved and unpaved roads before reaching the gravel levee along the Chikuma River, Japan’s longest river. To your left stands Mount Kosha, a symbolic mountain in the area, while to your right stretches tranquil rice fields dotted with dragonflies. Just 3 kilometers from the Shinkansen station, you’ll find this accessible gravel route. After riding for a while, you’ll cross a bridge over the Chikuma River to reach the other side and follow an old road extending through apple orchards. You might encounter locals working in the fields. A cheerful "hello" as you pass will make your ride even more enjoyable.

Descending from the Chikuma River to a nearby settlement, you’ll come across one of the route’s highlights: a gravel path that runs along a water channel at the mountain’s base. With its mix of gravel, moss-covered concrete, and dappled sunlight, this section offers both beautiful scenery and a variety of surfaces to experience. The flowing water here supports local life, serving as irrigation in summer and for snow melting in winter. For cyclists, it also brings a refreshing breeze during the hotter months. This route allows you to connect with the local culture and natural environment, adding to its unique charm.

Emerging from the gravel path along the water channel, the route takes you through wide-open rice fields. This area, spanning Iiyama City and Kijimadaira Village, is renowned among food connoisseurs for its rice production. From the rice planting in May to the harvests between September and October, the ever-changing scenery of the fields is captivating for cyclists. The same route offers completely different landscapes depending on the season, along with the distinct smells and sounds of the countryside. Of course, the rice here isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a delight to eat as well.

After enjoying the rural gravel ride, you’ll return to Iiyama Station, passing through Atago Town’s Gangi Street. This area is characterized by a traditional architectural feature called "gangi," where neighboring houses connect their roofs to create covered walkways, ensuring passable roads even during heavy snow. This route isn’t just about maximizing gravel sections; it’s a story that includes old roads, seasonal flowers, and sweeping views from elevated spots. The Iiyama Satoyama Gravel Route combines all these elements into a single narrative for riders to enjoy.