STAGE

This mountainous stage features a breathtaking course that passes through a caldera and grasslands, boasting some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Riders will race past Aso Shrine, which has been restored after the Kumamoto earthquake, and head toward Hakoishi Pass, a Category 1 climb offering a sweeping view of the majestic Five Peaks of Aso. After that, they will complete three laps of a smaller circuit that includes the Category 2 climb at Nabeno, before descending toward Takamori. The route then passes near the Minami Aso Railway, which resumed full operations last year, and the Shirakawa Spring, one of Japan's 100 Famous Waters, before finishing in Minamiaso Village. This day will be crucial in determining the overall winner.