Sankei Digital, commissioned by Ibaraki Prefecture, launched a promotion in September using the Taiwanese virtual cycling app ‘WhiizU’ at three hubs in Tokyo where cyclists gather.
‘WhiizU’ includes numerous real-life recordings of cycling routes in Ibaraki Prefecture, such as ‘Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road’ and ‘Oku Kuji Satoyama Hill Climb Route’, which are designated as national cycle routes, providing an experience as if you actually rode the course. In this initiative, a virtual ride event with guests was held at spots and facilities along the Arakawa and Tamagawa Rivers where cyclists gather, as a PR measure for cycle routes in the prefecture.
On September 14th (Sat) at Inagi Central Park and September 21st (Sat) at Arakawa BASE CYCLING STATION, the events were held in which Mr. Shino from Ibaraki Cycling Navigator participated as a guest. A time trial challenge to compete with Mr. Shino was well received and the atmosphere was heated.
From September 23rd (Mon/holiday) to 29th, a booth was set up at TX PLAZA Akihabara, creating an opportunity to casually enjoy virtual cycling. On the last day, the 29th, Ms. Moe, also from Ibaraki Cycling Navigator, made a guest appearance and appealed the attractive cycle routes of Ibaraki through live streaming.
WhiizU features a wide range of real-life recordings of cycling routes in Ibaraki Prefecture. Below is a list of the recorded courses:
Tsukuba Kasumigaura Rinrin Road
Hitachi Daigo Seaside Route
National Hitachi Seaside Park
Oku Kuji Satoyama Hill Climb Route
Yassan Mountain