Qinghai: The near-ending 2025 Tour of Magnificent Qinghai is not only a road cycling spectacle but a crucial platform for China's Qinghai Province to showcase its plateau ecological protection, cultural tourism integration, and rural revitalization efforts. From the canola flower fields of Menyuan to the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Qilian, from the intangible cultural heritage of the Tu ethnic group in Huzhu to the magnificent scenes of nomadic horse teams cheering on the race, the cycling wheels are painting a vibrant new picture of the plateau where ecology and culture harmoniously blend.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai kicked off on July 6 in Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province. Formerly known as the Tour of Qinghai Lake, the event was rebranded in 2025, becoming one of Asia's premier road cycling events, known for its punishing terrain and average elevation of 3,000 meters. The 2025 edition features eight stages totaling 1,400 kilometers and has attracted 154 professional riders from 11 countries and regions. The race concludes in Haiyan County on July 13.
Luo Dongchuan, Governor of Qinghai Province, emphasized the race's unique charm, noting that it has become a benchmark event leading the development of cycling in China. David Lappartient, President of the International Cycling Union (UCI), reiterated the race's significance, highlighting its evolution into a UCI ProSeries event attracting top teams and athletes.
Chinese cyclist Li Zisen, who has trained in Qinghai since 2013, is a testament to the race's impact on athletes. With rigorous training, Li has gained recognition at both domestic and international cycling events, bringing pride to his hometown in Yunnan Province.
Qinghai Province is renowned for its ecological significance, acting as the "Water Tower of China" with its numerous lakes and diverse wildlife. The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai serves as a "green calling card" showcasing the region's ecological civilization construction. This year's race route allows spectators to witness Qinghai's harmonious coexistence with nature.
Wang Xia, Director of the Qinghai Provincial Sports Bureau, highlighted the event's role in promoting ecological protection. Since 2017, the region has seen significant improvements in vegetation and ecological quality, with increased water conservation and carbon dioxide fixation.
The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has also become a driving force for promoting Qinghai's high-quality development. The region is emerging as a world-class salt lake industry hub, a national clean energy highland, an international eco-tourism destination, and a green agricultural and livestock export base.
Culturally, Qinghai is home to multiple ethnic groups, with the race fostering cultural exchanges and showcasing rural revitalization efforts. The event has witnessed the development of characteristic industries and the transformation of local economies.
Haiyan County's Xihai Town, the final stage of this year's race, has seen significant growth in the local cycling industry, contributing to the region's cultural history and development. Today, Qinghai stands as a modern, eco-friendly plateau, with the "green" cycling race painting a vivid picture of its development and harmony with nature.