Discover the Charms of Saiki! – A Cycling Journey with Mado-chan
Introduction
We had the pleasure of interviewing Mado-chan, an ambassador for the “Cycling Town Saiki” campaign in Saiki City, Oita Prefecture. She operates from the cycling station Saikiring Terminal, located at Saiki Station, where she promotes the local charm of the area through cycling.
Saikiring Terminal is a multifunctional facility offering bicycle rentals, tour information, and travel guidance. It even includes a shower facility within JR Saiki Station. With a fleet of 50 bicycles, including 30 e-bikes—the largest in the prefecture—the station serves as a hub for cycle tourism, energizing Saiki City with its diverse offerings.
This article dives into Mado-chan’s passion for cycling and her efforts to highlight the region’s appeal.
How Did You Get into Cycling?
My journey with cycling began three years ago when I started working at the city’s tourism association, driven by my desire to contribute to the tourism industry. I was assigned to “cycling tourism,” and as I started riding, I found myself captivated by its simplicity and charm.
Cycling allows me to notice roads and scenery I wouldn’t usually pay attention to, and the act of pedaling itself is a soothing, focused experience. The joy of riding without any distractions became the reason I fell in love with cycling.
What Are the Benefits of Cycling?
The biggest benefit I’ve felt since I started cycling is how much fitter I’ve become. Experiencing this change made me want to share the joy of cycling with my friends and family.
In a place like Saiki, cycling lets you experience the scent of the sea breeze and notice small scenic details that are easily missed by car. I often find myself wanting to share these views with children, which inspired me to introduce student discounts for rental bikes, making cycling accessible to more people.
What Do You Keep in Mind as a Guide?
As a guide, I aim to “keep it real.” I share honest impressions and observations with my guests, making sure we enjoy the tour together. I also only recommend places and food that I genuinely find delightful.
Saiki is known for its fresh seafood, and the winter yellowtail, rich with fat, is a must-try. I believe that sharing Saiki’s authentic charm in my own words adds real value to my tours.
How Do You Make Tours Enjoyable for Everyone?
I ensure a relaxed pace so guests don’t feel exhausted the next day. For instance, when I took a group of mothers with children to Oita Island, we chose a 10km section of the 17km course and planned a 2-3 hour tour, including lunch. Even those new to cycling enjoyed it.
Cycling also creates precious opportunities for families to engage in conversations, making it a memorable experience. I strive to make the time spent riding with children special.
What Makes Oita a Great Place for Cycling?
Saiki alone offers abundant natural beauty and delicious food, but Oita as a whole provides even more diversity. In Saiki, “food” is a major highlight. From restaurants serving seasonal dishes the night before a ride to local delicacies along the route, there’s plenty to savor.
Beautiful scenery is another attraction, but discovering hidden culinary gems is often the most rewarding part of the experience.
Conclusion
Saiki’s rich nature, flavorful food culture, and the unique scenery experienced through cycling come together to create an unforgettable adventure.
Cycling with Mado-chan offers a deeper appreciation of Saiki’s charms. Let this article inspire you to visit Saiki and enjoy a leisurely cycling journey. You’re sure to uncover something special that can only be found in Saiki.