Shinshiro, which is set to host the start and finish of the road cycling races at Aichi-Nagoya 2026, has launched a campaign encouraging cyclists and motorists to share the road ©Getty Images

Shinshiro, which is due to host the start and finish of the road cycling races at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, has launched a campaign to encourage cyclists and motorists to share the road safely.

The "Compassionate 1.5m Exercise" campaign is looking for businesses to display posters and stickers as part of a wider project to make Shinshiro more friendly for bicycles in advance of the Asian Games.

As part of the campaign motorists and cyclists are being encouraged to "Share The Road", with motorists urged to keep a safe distance or 1.5 metres or more when overtaking a cyclist.   

The Aichi Prefectural Government says it is currently forming a "regional revitalization vision that utilizes the Games", and this is one policy aimed at tapping into the event for wider community benefit.

The Prefectural Government is particularly keen to promote community sports and active lifestyles.

Shinshiro City has launched a Compassionate 1.5m Exercise campaign prior to its scheduled hosting of part of the road cycling races at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games ©Shinshiro City
Shinshiro City has launched a Compassionate 1.5m Exercise campaign prior to its scheduled hosting of part of the road cycling races at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games ©Shinshiro City

Stickers are available from the Shinshiro City website with three different versions to choose from - one of a road bike, one of a mountain bike and one of a children’s bike. 

The stickers come in both square and rectangular shapes.

The 2026 Asian Games is scheduled to take place from September 19 to October 4.

It will be the third time Japan hosts the Asian Games, after Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994.