Gravel Classic Yakurai

Date

Saturday 22.08.2026

Distances

48 - 96 km

City

Kami Town,

Country

Japan

Website Contact

The Gravel Classic Yakurai returns in 2026 in Kami Town, Miyagi Prefecture—one of Japan’s most scenic regions for forest gravel riding. After earning strong national recognition through previous editions and events by Hayasaka Cycle and Cannondale, the 2026 event marks a new step toward establishing Kami Town as a leading gravel destination.

This edition will feature for the first time a Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series round.

Course

Gravel Classic Yakurai has a challenging course. The start and finish are located at the Kamimachi General Gymnasium and Sports Park

The route contains two laps of ~57km with a total elevation of 2753m. 92% of the course is offroad! Younger categories do the two laps while men over 60 and women over 50 finish after one lap with a total elevation of 1469m.

Five categorized climbs are spread over the course per lap

START

ELEVATION GAIN

LENGTH

AVERAGE GRADIENT

MAX GRADIENT

1.9 km

175m

2,1 km

8.2%

18.2%

6,9 km

178m

3.3 km

5.00%

11.6%

12.3 km

272m

6.2 km

3.9%

13.8%

20 km

141m

2,9 km

4,1%

9,5%

30,4 km

297m

5,2 km

4,1%

16,7%

115km (Men 19-59 / Women 19-49)

57km (Men 60+ / Women 50+)

KAMI TOWN AND MIYAGI PREFECTURE

Kami Town (加美町) lies in Kami District, western Miyagi Prefecture, bordering Yamagata. It’s known for its rolling farmland, Mt. Yakurai, traditional culture, nature parks, and small local museums.

Top Natural Attractions

Mt. Yakurai (やくらい山) : A symbolic peak often called “Kami Fuji” because of its elegant conical shape.

- 1.5 km hike (≈40 min) from the trailhead.
- Offers wide views over the valleys.
Yakurai Garden : A large flower garden famed for seasonal blooms, rose displays, and landscaped designs. Great for strolling, photography, and family visits.
Yakurai Yakushi no Yu : A local hot spring (onsen) with mountain views—perfect after hiking.

Culture, History & Crafts

Matsumoto Family Residence : A historical residence offering insight into traditional rural architecture and daily life.
Bokusetsusumi Art Museum : A small local art museum highlighting regional artists.
Tohoku & Ceramics Culture Museum / Furusato Pottery Museum : Showcases Tohoku pottery traditions with exhibits and specialty crafts.
Ishikawa Knives Factory : A specialty local crafts shop demonstrating traditional blade‑making.

Family Activities

Yakurai Garden Family Ski Resort : Small ski area ideal for beginners and families.
Bouldering Park Yakurai Wall : Indoor climbing for all levels.
Forest Park – Park of Friendship : Park with mini‑golf, nature areas, and family‑friendly recreation.