The Coast・海岸

Miyagi’s coastline runs the entire length of its eastern border. The coast is home to many of the prefecture’s most famous sights and some of the country’s best seafood. Though the entire coast was hit hard by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, most of the roads have been rebuilt so well that they are now actually smoother than roads in areas that weren't struck by such a major disaster. Additionally, most of the coast is quite flat and easy to ride. The northern 25% or so is part of the Sanriku Fukko National Park. This area of coastline does gets quite hilly, but the scenery more than makes up for it.

Recommended ride: Oshika Peninsula
Difficulty: Hard

A ride through the southern part of the Sanriku Fukko National Park. The route is one of rolling hills punctuated by scenic ocean views. Though the climbs are not particularly long or steep, so little of the 70-km route is level that riders will end up clocking over 1,400 meters’ elevation gain in total! The ride starts and ends at Onagawa Station, a train station with sport cycle rental nearby, making this one of the most convenient long rides in Miyagi.

Countryside ・田舎

Heading inland to the west, you’ll find low plains intersected unobtrusively by train lines. The plains are occupied predominantly by cities and rice fields, easy and convenient to ride through. The plains soon give way to mountains, the foothills of which are dotted with charming villages exceedingly pleasant to explore by bike.

Recommended ride: Marumori Loop
Difficulty: Medium/Easy

Marumori is a rural municipality in the foothills of southern Miyagi. It has acquired some popularity amongst cyclists living in the nearby cities. Heartened by the word-of-mouth publicity, the town has taken it upon themselves to start promoting itself as a cycling destination. The tourist office inside Marumori Station now offers free cycling maps and free chari bicycle rental to visitors.

Mountain Passes・峠

The higher you climb, the more wilderness you’ll encounter. Some of these mountainous areas, like Mount Zao, are popular sightseeing destinations. Others, like the Sasaya Pass, are considered some of the most remote regions in all of Japan. The grueling climbs here are made worth it by the beautiful scenery and the joy of discovering secluded hot springs or countryside cafes hidden within landscapes that appear to be uninhabited.

Recommended ride: Zao Highlands
Difficulty: Hard

Miyagi’s most famous ride. This 67-km route goes up and over Mount Zao, Miyagi’s tallest mountain. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons: towering snow walls when the road is first cleared in spring, verdant vegetation all summer, and fiery foliage come autumn.