- Overall Winner of the Giro d’Italia(2006 & 2010)
- Runner-up at the Tour de France(2005)
- Winner of the Tour de France Young Rider Classification(2002)
- Multiple Grand Tour Overall Podium Finishes
- One of Italy’s Greatest Road Cycling Legends
Amu is a cycling YouTuber and content creator behind the YouTube channel "Amu-chan!", where she shares the joy of cycling and bicycle touring across Japan. She has been riding road bikes for over six years and has traveled by bicycle throughout the country. In July 2024, she completed a cycling journey through all 47 prefectures of Japan.
With 15 years of cycling experience, Beki is an islander born on Tsushima. He shares gourmet spots and cycling routes on his YouTube channel "Beki no Ikubeki!" and Instagram. In August 2023, he accomplished his long-time dream of completing the "PBP" (Paris-Brest-Paris), a 1,200 km brevet. Recently, Beki has been cycling beyond Japan, exploring places like South Korea and Taiwan, and is eager to expand his adventures abroad.
Niseko Discovery Cycling is back! I’ve heard the course has been completely redesigned this year, giving us an even better way to experience the beautiful area around Mt. Yotei—and I’m already so excited! We'll be riding through Makkari Village, famous for its delicious lily bulbs, and Rusutsu Village, one of Hokkaido's most popular resort destinations. It'll be my first time visiting both places, and I can't wait to discover them. Hokkaido never disappoints when it comes to breathtaking scenery and amazing local food, so I'm looking forward to taking it all in along the way. Let's enjoy an unforgettable ride together under the watchful eye of Mt. Yotei, stay safe, and make it to the finish with smiles on our faces. See you at Niseko Discovery Cycling!
A cyclist with over 10 years of experience, based in both Osaka and Hokkaido, Japan. She is a content creator behind the YouTube channel "Meisan no Yakata," where she shares the joy of life with road cycling. In addition to working as a model and appearing in promotional campaigns for more than 15 domestic and international cycling brands, she is also an experienced cycling guide, leading riders from around the world on cycling tours across Japan.
Hi everyone! I'm Mei!
I'm so excited to ride through the breathtaking scenery of Niseko with all of you.
Through my content, I share the joy of living with a road bike. For me, cycling is about much more than just riding—it's about the beautiful scenery, delicious local food, and the conversations you have along the way.
That's why Niseko Discovery Cycling is my ideal event. It combines the joy of cycling with the unique charm of the region, creating an unforgettable experience both on and off the bike.
Whether you're new to road cycling or getting back in the saddle after a while, you're more than welcome to join us. Let's enjoy the spectacular views, great local cuisine, and an amazing day together.
I can't wait to ride with you all!
From an early age, he enjoyed a wide variety of sports, including basketball, rugby, and field hockey. He took up road cycling in 2024 and, just 18 months later, was selected to represent Japan at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, where he claimed the bronze medal in the road race. In 2026, he won the Men's Elite category at the Kanto Challenge Cycle Road Race.
I am truly delighted to be joining Niseko Discovery Cycling as a guest rider. This will be my first visit to Hokkaido, and I am already looking forward to experiencing its magnificent nature, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. I cannot wait to ride alongside all the participants and discover the many attractions of Niseko together.
Cycling is not only about competing for speed—it is also a wonderful sport that brings people together and allows us to experience the unique character of each region. Please feel free to come and say hello to me on the day. I hope that my participation will help raise awareness and understanding of Deaf sports and Deaf and hard-of-hearing people through cycling.
I am sincerely looking forward to creating unforgettable memories with everyone.
Born in Saga Prefecture, Japan.
Yukari has represented Japan at five consecutive Deaflympics. At the 2022 Summer Deaflympics in Brazil, she had the honor of serving as the flag bearer for Team Japan and won three bronze medals.
In 2024 and 2025, she competed in Japan's National Sports Festival (Saga and Shiga). As part of her cycling training, she has also taken on athletics and is currently working toward qualifying for the National Sports Festival for People with Disabilities, which will be held in Aomori in October 2026.
And by the way—running is fun, too!
Hello everyone!
I am a Deaf cyclist. The word “Deaf” means that I cannot hear.
Have you heard of the Deaflympics? The Deaflympics are an international multi-sport event for Deaf athletes, held every four years, just like the Olympic Games.
When I ride, I cannot hear the sounds around me, so I rely on visual information to stay aware of my surroundings. I am really looking forward to seeing the magnificent views of Mount Yotei and Niseko.
A few years ago, I took part in the Niseko Classic several times, and I have many wonderful memories of Niseko. It is a place I truly love, and I feel honored to be able to return.
I am very happy to have the opportunity to ride with everyone while fully enjoying the gran fondo experience. I am sincerely looking forward to seeing you at the venue.
Let’s enjoy the ride and make it to the finish together!
More than just a cycling enthusiast, YUKARI is also active in a wide range of fields, leveraging her experience in the fashion industry. She travels nationwide with her beloved Ridley bike to enjoy cycling and road race spectating, sharing her experiences through YouTube and social media.
Hello everyone, nice to meet you! I first visited Niseko last year during a gravel cycling event and was amazed by the vast nature, stunning scenery, and smooth riding experience! I’m thrilled to be able to explore Niseko again on a road bike. Looking forward to riding with everyone!
In 1999, he became the first Japanese cyclist to compete in the Tour of Flanders. The following year, in 2000, he participated in major World Cup races, including Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Gent–Wevelgem, La Flèche Wallonne, and GP Plouay. He competed in Europe until 2002, spending nine seasons as a professional (eight years under contract with pro teams). Throughout his career, he raced in over 700 professional races and more than 1,000 races in total, achieving approximately 200 top finishes.
In 2015, he became the first Japanese rider to finish in the lead group of the prestigious "Paris–Brest–Paris" (1,200 km), completing the race in 43 hours and 23 minutes.
Beyond racing, he has been an active cycling commentator for J SPORTS since 2003, offering expert insights, especially in Belgian races, where he lived for a decade, leveraging his deep knowledge of the local terrain.
This is the perfect fun ride for cyclists who want to enjoy both riding and watching the races! Since you'll get to ride part of the same course the elite riders will race on, you'll have an even greater appreciation for the road races the following day. I'm excited too, as it will be my first time riding these roads. Climbing isn't exactly my strongest point, but with aid stations and support along the route, I'm sure it will be an enjoyable challenge for everyone. Let's take in the beautiful scenery, enjoy the local food, and make the most of this amazing cycling experience together!