Set in the rich natural environment of the Hokuriku region, there are many competitions that are perfect for those who want to try trail running for the first time.
We have carefully selected five tournaments that even beginners can enjoy with peace of mind, with attractive courses unique to the Hokuriku region, including spectacular views of the Sea of Japan, views of the Tateyama mountain range, and the rural mountains of Echigo.
In this article, we will introduce in detail the beginner-oriented tournaments that are scheduled or expected to be held in 2026.
Definition of a beginner's trail running event
For the purposes of this article, the following criteria are defined as "beginner-friendly."
[Five criteria for beginners]
❶ Distance: 25km or less <br>This distance is suitable for those with the physical strength to complete a half marathon on flat ground. Trails are more strenuous than road races, so it's safer to start with a shorter distance.
❷ Cumulative elevation: 2,000m or less <br>The lower the cumulative elevation, the fewer ups and downs there will be, reducing the physical strain. For beginners, an elevation of around 1,500m is appropriate, and those with hiking experience can easily handle it.
❸ Time limit: 5 hours or more <br>Set a time limit that allows you to complete the whole course even if you have to walk. If it's your first time on a trail, it may take longer than you expect, so it's important to set a time limit with ample space.
❹ Course maintenance: The hiking trail is well-maintained . There are clear signs and the course is well-maintained, making it difficult to get lost. Even beginners can run safely.
5. Access: Easy to get to by public transport. A tournament that is easily accessible from the station or has a shuttle bus. Convenience is important, taking into account how easily you can move around after getting tired.
These standards were set with an emphasis on creating an environment where beginners to trail running can enjoy themselves safely while experiencing the sense of accomplishment of completing the course.
5 Trail Running Events for Beginners in the Hokuriku Region
1. Trail Runners Cup Echigo Hillside Park 2026
Date and time: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Venue: Echigo Hillside National Park, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Long 12km (total elevation gain approx. 600m, time limit 3 hours) / Short 5km (total elevation gain approx. 250m, time limit 2 hours)
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Available (2,155 standard-sized cars, parking fee 320 yen)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This permanent trail running course was produced by professional trail runner Hiroaki Matsunaga. The course is designed to combine the nature trails and trail running courses within the park, allowing you to run while enjoying the fresh greenery of spring.
There is also a short division for parents and children, open to participants from age 3, making this a competition that the whole family can enjoy.
Recommended for beginners:
The 5km short division is open to children aged 3 and over, and has a time limit of 2 hours, allowing ample time. Preschool children must be accompanied by a parent, so parents and children can enjoy the race together with peace of mind.
The 12km long division is beginner-friendly with a cumulative elevation gain of 600m, and there is also a discount system for double entries (participating in both the 12km and 5km races).
Official URL: https://trailrunners.jp/event/echigo-2026/
2. Trail Runners Cup Ishikawa Okuradake 2026
Date and time: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Venue: Okuradake Kogen Ski Resort, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Long 14km (total elevation gain approx. 1,000m, time limit 4 hours) / Short 4km (total elevation gain approx. 300m, time limit 2 hours)
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Available (free, 490 spaces in total)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
A spectacular trail with a view of the sacred Mount Hakusan from the summit. Starting from the slopes, you will proceed along a wide, well-maintained mountain path.
Once you get over the steep climb near the summit, you will be greeted by Mt. Hakusan in the distance, making this an impressive course.
Recommended for beginners:
The 4km short division is open to children aged 3 and over, and is beginner-friendly with a cumulative elevation gain of 300m. The course is centered around managed roads on the slopes, so even beginners can feel safe.
There is also a "set discount" that allows you to participate in both the 14km and 4km races, so you can start with a shorter distance and then move on to the longer distance once you feel confident in your stamina.
Official URL: https://trailrunners.jp/event/ishikawa-2026/
3. Echigo Matsudai Spring Trail Run Race 2026
Date and time: Sunday, June 14, 2026
Venue: Matsudai area, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: 25km (total elevation gain 1,300m, time limit 6 hours 45 minutes)
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Yes (see official website for details)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The race is held in the beautiful Satoyama area of Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Racers can enjoy the spectacular scenery that can only be seen in the season of fresh greenery as they run through rice terraces and forests.
The event is held with the aim of promoting the region and increasing the number of visitors, and is attractive for its warm local hospitality.
Recommended for beginners:
The course is 25km long with a cumulative elevation gain of 1,300m and a time limit of 6 hours and 45 minutes, making it easy for beginners to complete.
As it is a Satoyama trail, there are few extremely steep sections, so even first-time trail racers can take on the challenge with peace of mind. There is also a 2km Junior & Family division, making it an attractive option for families to participate.
Official URL: https://echigomatsudaiharunojin.com/
4. Kaga Coast Seaside Trail Run 2026
Date and time: Saturday, April 11, 2026 (10th tournament)
Venue: Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Long course: approx. 31km / Middle course: approx. 15km (total elevation: approx. 450m) / Kids course: 6km, approx. 3km
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Yes (see official website for details)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This is a scenic course that runs along the coastline and hills of Kaga. The greatest attraction is the "spectacular scenery that can only be seen here" that you can enjoy while running while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Sea of Japan.
It is also close to Kaga Onsen, so you can enjoy a hot spring bath after the race.
Recommended for beginners:
The 15km middle course has a cumulative elevation gain of about 450m, making it beginner-friendly. It is officially described as "ideal for trail running beginners," and is designed to allow you to enjoy the ups and downs even though the distance is short.
The course has a relatively high proportion of paved roads, making it beginner-friendly and suitable for running in running shoes.
Official information: Twitter @kagatrail /Facebook Kaga Coast Seaside Trail Run
5. Tsurugi Mountain Trail du Kamiichi 2026
Date and time: Sunday, July 5, 2026
Venue: Kamiichi Town, Toyama Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Short 24km (total elevation approx. 662m, time limit 6 hours) / Parent-child pair approx. 1.2km
Number of participants: Over 1,000 people (2025 results)
parking: Yes (see official website for details)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This scenic course overlooks Mount Tsurugi and is full of natural undulations. It is designed for beginners, with a relatively high proportion of paved roads and a lower cumulative elevation gain than typical trail running events.
There are plenty of aid stations, making this a friendly race where you can run in running shoes.
Recommended for beginners:
With a total elevation gain of 662m over 24km and a time limit of 6 hours, this race is beginner-friendly. It is officially described as "safe even for beginner trail runners, and can be run in running shoes," making it the perfect first trail race.
The completion rate is high at 98%, and there is a track record of many beginners being able to complete the course. There is also a parent-child pair division, so the whole family can enjoy it.
Official URL: https://www.kamiichmaranik.com/
summary
The Hokuriku region offers a variety of attractive trail running events unique to this region, including spectacular views of the Sea of Japan, views of the Tateyama mountain range, and the beautiful rural mountains of Echigo.
All five of the races introduced here meet the standards for beginners and are designed to allow participants to experience the joy of running in nature while feeling a sense of accomplishment upon completing the course.
Tournaments in the Hokuriku region in particular have a wide selection of parent-child divisions that are open to participants from age 3, making them a great attraction for families to enjoy.
Additionally, the course is designed to be beginner-friendly, allowing participants to run in running shoes, and there are plenty of aid stations, so you can feel at ease.
Trail running has a different appeal to road running, and the exhilaration of running through the mountains and the sense of oneness with nature are exceptional. By starting with short-distance competitions and gradually stepping up, you can enjoy the deep world of trail running.
Why not take on a new challenge on the trails of the Hokuriku region in 2026? After the race, you can relax in the hot springs of Kaga or Echigo. We wholeheartedly hope you complete the race!
