WHAT IS THE TOUR DE KYUSHU
The Tour de Kyushu is a UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) sanctioned cycling road race, established by the Kyushu Regional Strategy Council, which comprises top economic organizations in Kyushu and the governors of each prefecture. This event was decided to be held as a symbol of the sustainable legacy of the Rugby World Cup, the promotion of cycle tourism in Kyushu, and the recovery from recent natural disasters that have struck the region.
The 3rd tournament was held from October 10th to 13th, 2025, in Sasebo, Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, and Oita.
This race is expected to provide a significant opportunity for athletes aiming for global success, contribute to the development of a wide range of personnel involved in road racing, and promote cycling sports in Kyushu. Additionally, it is expected to contribute to regional branding by showcasing Kyushu's beautiful nature and landscapes to a global audience.
To meet these expectations and to serve as an event contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals in the region, the economic and administrative sectors of Kyushu will work together in cooperation to develop the event.
TOURNAMENT OUTLINE
| EVENT TITLE |
Mynavi Tour de Kyushu 2026 
|
|---|---|
| ORGANIZER |
Tour de Kyushu 2026 Executive Committee Tour de Kyushu Association |
| DATE | Friday, October 9 - Monday, October 12, 2026 (national holiday) |
| VENUE | Nagasaki,Fukuoka,Saga,Kumamoto,Oita and Miyazaki Prefectures |
| RACE FORMAT | Stage race (road) and criterium (small circuit race) |
| RACE CATEGORY | UCI Asia Tour 2.1 (Stage Race Class 1) |
| PARTICIPATING TEAMS | 18 Domestic and International Teams |
| TEAM COMPOSITION |
Each team consists of 9 members (6 riders, 1 supervisor, 1 mechanic, 1 manager) *Final team selection will be determined through negotiations with the teams. |
THEME MUSIC
「Against The Wind」
Music: Kyoji Yamamoto
Producer: Yasuko Matsumoto
MESSAGE
The fanfare at the beginning of "Against The Wind" represents the podium that all athletes strive for. With a bold start, overcoming countless obstacles, and pressing forward against headwinds, the song expresses the energy and determination of the riders as they continue pedaling with all their might.— Kyoji
PROFILE
Kyoji Yamamoto
Born in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. He began playing guitar at the age of 15 and entered Yamaha's Nemu Music Academy at 18. Even at that time, he was already being hailed as a guitar prodigy. While still in school, he was chosen as the lead guitarist and lead vocalist for BOWWOW.
During their debut, touring with KISS and Aerosmith made headlines. With his dynamic and overwhelming sound and guitar technique, he has consistently led Japan’s rock scene. Later, he formed VOW WOW and based himself in London, performing across Europe and the U.S. for about four years. The band even charted in the UK, earning high acclaim internationally and significantly influencing overseas artists, including Metallica.
In addition to his band activities, he tours nationwide with his solo project "Kyoji Yamamoto’s Fully Unleashed Solo Guitar Show", collaborating across a wide range of genres including rock, fusion, folk, blues, traditional Japanese music, and classical. He has performed with musicians from all backgrounds and has even toured with Eikichi Yazawa. From sessions to producing for other artists, his broad musical range continues to fuel his global success in the music scene.