After a three-year hiatus, the highly anticipated Tour de Tohoku 2022 took place on Sunday, September 18th, with Seihoku Park in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, serving as the start and finish point. As a proud Gold Partner of the event, Mapbox Japan contributed significantly to the event's success with its real-time map and other innovative features, enhancing the experience for riders and spectators alike.

A long-awaited return

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event had been canceled for two consecutive years. This made the 2022 edition even more special as it marked the first in-person event in three years. Riders from all over the country arrived at the venue early, filled with excitement, ready for the ride ahead. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as participants lined up before the 6:30 a.m. start, eager to experience the joy of cycling through the beautiful Tohoku region.

The event, which aims to support the recovery efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake and preserve the memory of the disaster, began with a moment of silence. Then, under the bright blue sky over Ishinomaki City, riders set off on their 100km and 65km journeys.

Mapbox real-time map captures attention

One of the key highlights of the event was Mapbox Japan’s implementation of a “Real-time Map” as part of the Tohoku Support Project. The map featured live location data for riders, fixed-point footage from aid stations, and even in-car camera views mounted on the riders’ bikes. The map was displayed on large monitors at the exhibition booth located at both the start and finish lines, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Local supporters and spectators were captivated by the live tracking, which kept them engaged throughout the race.

Rider and spectator reactions

At the booth, a designated photo spot allowed riders who had completed their fun rides to take commemorative photos. Smiling with relief, they snapped photos with their smartphones, celebrating their accomplishment. One rider shared, “The section from Kitakami River to Kamiwarizaki had a tailwind, which made for a pleasant ride,” while another added, “The staff members waving to us from the sidelines made it feel like a very homely event.”

In addition to the cycling, the event is known for its delicious, locally-sourced soups and curries served at aid stations throughout the course. One rider remarked, “I’m so satisfied to enjoy local food while taking in the ocean views.”

Mapbox riders share their experience

Several Mapbox riders participated in the event, and all of them completed their respective races. One rider, participating in their first road race, said, “It was my first time participating, but I was able to ride comfortably thanks to the guidance of some great senior riders.” Another Mapbox rider in the 100km race shared, “We formed a team and had a lot of fun riding together. There were moments with strong winds, but we didn’t let that discourage us.”

A heartwarming finish

As riders crossed the finish line, cheers and words of gratitude filled the air from the cheering spectators. The return of the Tour de Tohoku after three years was a poignant moment, and the event had successfully rekindled the spirit of the community. The clock that had once stopped due to the pandemic had now started ticking again, signaling the return of this beloved event.

Looking ahead, the Mapbox Japan team, along with all the participants, is already looking forward to next year’s “reunion of smiles” in Tohoku, eager to continue supporting the region’s recovery and sharing in the joy of this unique and memorable cycling event.