Shikoku’s Ehime Prefecture has been selected as the host of Velo-City 2027, the annual world cycling summit of the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), becoming the first destination in Japan to welcome the four-day event.
Some 1,000 cycling advocates, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders are expected to attend the summit, scheduled for May 25-28, 2027, in a bid “to shape the future of cycling and sustainable development” through participation in discussions, exhibitions and cycling according to organisers.
ECF CEO Jill Warren described Ehime as “an exceptional example of a region that leverages the many benefits of cycling as an inclusive, resilient and healthy means of transportation”, adding that “Velo-citizens will be very interested in exploring Ehime through participation in the 2027 event”.
Prefectural governor Tokihiro Nakamura, said hosting the event would not only “contribute to improving the cycling environment in Japan” but also “help people learn more about the cycling policies that are being created in Europe”.
Ehime’s win is the culmination of long-term efforts in the prefecture to promote and encourage cycling for local people and visitors alike through policies and infrastructure, including the creation of routes such as the Shimanami Kaido, which runs from Hiroshima to Ehime with scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
A spokesperson of the Ehime International Bicycle Conference Promotion Office said staff will work to “spread the economic benefits of the summit throughout the prefecture” and to build on the recognition of hosting “to attract even more visitors to the area to enjoy cycling”.
