Velo-city 2025
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10-13 June 2025

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Ehime Prefecture wins bid to host Velo-city 2027: A first for Japan!

For the first time in Velo-city history, the world cycling summit will take place in Japan. The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) is delighted to announce Ehime Prefecture, renowned as the most cycling-friendly region in Japan, as the host of the Velo-city 2027.  Known for its rich culture and natural beauty, the prefecture’s cycling promotion builds on the philosophy of fostering "health", "purpose in life", and "friendship". 

The conference will take place from 25-28 May 2027 in Matsuyama, the picturesque capital of Ehime Prefecture located in northwest Shikoku. Ehime Prefecture's exceptional bid demonstrated strong motivation and enthusiasm to spread the "Velo-city spirit" to the entire country and beyond. The 2027 edition will be jointly organised by Ehime Prefecture and ECF.
 

Governor of Ehime Prefecture, Tokihiro Nakamura, said, “As a first for Japan, I would like to say that I am extremely honored to have Ehime Prefecture be chosen to host Velo-city. This honor will greatly contribute to improving the cycling environment in Japan and thus in Asia at large, as hosting the world's biggest cycling event here in Japan will also help people learn more about the cycling policies that are being created in Europe. Bicycles are not only a sustainable means of transportation but are also a wonderful way to build health, create a sense of purpose in life and form new friendships. In taking this opportunity to hold Velo-city, I hope that we can further help create an environment in which bicycles can be ridden by more people, with more safety, and with more comfort.”

"We are honoured and delighted to work with Ehime on the 2027 edition of our annual conference," stated Jill Warren, CEO of ECF. "Ehime is an exceptional example of a region that leverages the many benefits of cycling as an inclusive, resilient, and healthy means of transportation while contributing to broader goals such as achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We believe that Ehime and Japan can be a source of great inspiration for many cities and countries in making cycling safe and accessible, and we believe many of our Velo-citizens will be very interested in exploring Ehime through participation in the 2027 event."
 

Ehime Prefecture Budokan, the Velo-city 2027 venue

Cycling accounts for around 13% of the modal split nationally. Moreover, Japan is home to several bicycle manufacturers and bicycle parts suppliers. Globally, Japan is also famous for its highly efficient public transportation system. 

Meanwhile, Matsuyama boasts one of Japan’s highest cycling rates, with 25% of commuters using bicycles for school and work and a 15% overall modal split in transport. 

Ehime’s ambitious bicycle promotion plan includes four concrete goals, ranging from expanding the role of bicycles as a means of transport to boosting cycling tourism. This widespread adoption of cycling is attributed to the prefecture’s ambitious cycling policies, such as building dedicated bicycle lanes and safety campaigns like the "1.5m Consideration Campaign”. 

Educational schemes that engage children, programmes encouraging more women to cycle, and initiatives addressing loneliness in the ageing population are further examples of the prefecture’s commitment to making cycling accessible to all, regardless of age or ability. 
 

The four prefectures of Shikoku work together to expand cycling tourism and position the island as an international cycling destination. One of the most outstanding cycling routes in the area is the Shimanami Kaido, six bridges with a separate bike trail stretching a distance of 70 kilometres, in the Seto Inland Sea connecting the six islands between Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture and Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture. With its breathtaking views and emerald waters, this national cycling route is a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts. 

Ehime seeks to seize the opportunity of the conference to inspire action worldwide and foster the growth of cycling globally. The prefecture also aims to promote sustainable mobility across the Asia-Pacific region and will make every effort to encourage more countries from that region to attend Velo-city. Additionally, Ehime plans to boost its cycling strategy through the conference.