Downhill Series Returns
to Hakuba Iwatake for Round 4 of Japan’s National Series

Japan’s Downhill Series returned to Hakuba Iwatake MTB Park last weekend, with Round 4 of the 2026 series bringing riders from across the country to one of Japan’s most established lift-access mountain bike destinations.

Recognised as a Japan Cycling Federation ranking event, the weekend attracted competitors across Elite, Masters, Youth, Open and Kids categories, with valuable national ranking points on offer as the series moved into the second half of the season.

The event followed the familiar Downhill Series format, with official practice and seeding runs held on Saturday before riders returned on Sunday for the finals. Competitors tackled one of Japan’s best-known downhill tracks, where natural terrain, technical features and high-speed sections continue to make Hakuba Iwatake a regular stop on the national calendar.

Set in the Northern Alps of Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba Iwatake has become one of Japan’s leading mountain bike destinations. Its growing trail network and lift-access riding attract visitors throughout the summer, while events such as the Downhill Series continue to showcase the venue’s importance within the country’s gravity riding scene.

The weekend extended beyond the racing itself. Following Sunday’s finals, riders and spectators gathered for a Whip-Off Contest, adding a relaxed and social finish to the competition before the awards ceremony. Throughout the event, exhibitors and industry partners were also on site with product displays, equipment sales and rider support, including a Vittoria tyre demo and loan programme.

The Downhill Series continues to distinguish itself by welcoming riders of all ages and abilities. Alongside the championship categories, the event included youth and junior racing, reinforcing the series’ role in supporting rider development across Japan. While the Kids Lo category was not held at Hakuba due to the demands of the course, young riders were still well represented throughout the weekend.

As the Downhill Series season continues, Round 4 provided another opportunity for riders to strengthen their national rankings ahead of the remaining rounds of the 2026 series. The calendar now moves on to the next events, with further rounds scheduled at some of Japan’s most recognised mountain bike venues before the season concludes later this year.

More than simply a race weekend, Hakuba once again highlighted what has made the Downhill Series an important part of Japanese mountain biking. Competitive racing, community atmosphere and opportunities for riders at every level continue to define the series as it travels the country.