"I'm a beginner at trail running , but I'd like to enter a competition." "Which competition is safe for my first trail run ?"
For those people, we have carefully selected some easy-to-complete trail running events to be held in Kansai in 2026.
Kansai has many rural areas near cities, making it a recommended area for trail running competitions with easy access.
In this article, we have picked out only tournaments that beginners can participate in without any worries.
Definition of a beginner trail running event
In this article, we define a trail running event for beginners as one that meets the following five criteria.
Five criteria for beginners
❶ Distance: 25km or less <br data-start="369" data-end="372">Trails are more strenuous than roads, so it's safest to start with around a half marathon.
❷Cumulative altitude: 2,000m or less
If you have hiking experience, you can easily handle up to around 1,500m.
❸ Time limit: 5 hours or more <br data-start="482" data-end="485">The course is designed so that you can complete the course even if you walk, and you can proceed without rushing.
❹ Mainly well-maintained hiking trails <br data-start="526" data-end="529">There are few rocky areas or sections with chains, making it very safe.
❺ Accessible by public transport <br data-start="569" data-end="572">For your first tournament, it's best not to need a car. You'll have peace of mind even after tiring out.
[Kansai Edition] 10 Recommended Trail Running Events for Beginners (2026)
1. 23rd Ikoma Trail Run <Winter Mountain>
Date and time: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Venue: Osaka Prefecture to Nara Prefecture (Ikoma Mountains)
Start: Kisaichi Waterfront Plaza (5 minutes walk from Keihan Kisaichi Station)
Finish line: Hiraoka Plum Grove for the 24km division (approximately 2 minutes walk from Kintetsu Hiraoka Station)
Distance and cumulative elevation:
- 24km course: Approximately 24km / cumulative elevation gain 700m
- 29km course: Approximately 29km / cumulative elevation gain 975m
Number of participants: Each course has a capacity of 300 people
parking: None (using public transportation)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The course runs through the Ikoma mountain range, located on the border between Osaka and Nara prefectures, and is easily accessible from urban areas. As it is held as a winter mountain course, you can run in a relatively cool climate.
There are two aid stations at the 24km mark, where drinks and snacks are provided. The time limit is a generous six hours (24km), and there is a wave start to avoid crowds.
Recommended for beginners:
The 24km course has a cumulative elevation gain of 700m, making it easy for beginners to tackle, and meets all the criteria.
The course includes a 2-3km road section, making it easy for even beginners to run. The start and finish are within a 5-minute walk from the station, making it extremely easy to access by public transportation. The time limit is 6 hours, so you can complete the course even if you take your time walking.
The participation fee is relatively reasonable at 7,800 yen.
Official page:
https://www.actrep-sports.com/ikoma-fuyuyama/
2. Katano Big Rock Trail 2026
Date and time: Sunday, February 8, 2026
Venue: Around Kurondo Park and Katanoyama Forest Park in Katano City, Osaka Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation:
Approximately 23km / Cumulative altitude approximately 1,380m
Number of participants: Total of 600 people: adults, junior high school students, and trios
parking: None (using public transportation)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This is a friendly competition based on the concept of a "mountain festival," with a course that takes in moderate mountains at an altitude of around 300m.
The trail is fun enough, but is designed so that even beginners can take on the challenge. There is also a "Trio Division" where groups of three can participate, so you can enjoy it with friends. A kids' division (Mini Rock Trail) is also held at the same time, creating an atmosphere where the whole family can participate.
Recommended for beginners:
The 23km course has a cumulative elevation gain of 1,380m, which is within the beginner's range. The time limit is six hours, so even beginners can run at their own pace.
The course is mainly made up of well-maintained mountain trails, with few technically difficult sections. It is easily accessible from Osaka city, and you can experience trail running while enjoying the atmosphere of Satoyama.
There is only one checkpoint, so it's less stressful and perfect for first timers.
Official page:
https://katano-bigrocktrail.outdoorgames.jp/
3. Trail Runners Cup Osaka Minoh 2026
Date and time: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Venue: Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture Reception: Ryuanji Temple Square, Start/Finish: Sakura Square
Distance and cumulative elevation:
- Short 4km: Total elevation gain approx. 400m
- Long 7km: cumulative elevation gain of approximately 700m
Number of participants: No limit (However, applications will close once capacity is reached)
parking: None (Coin parking available around the station)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The tournament is held in Minoh Park, close to the tourist attraction Minoh Falls, making it extremely accessible.
The 4km course is open to participants from age 3 and up, and is touted as "Japan's most accessible race," making it ideal for families and beginners. The well-maintained trails allow you to feel the arrival of spring as you run.
Well-known athletes will also be participating as guest runners, making this a highly eventful event.
Recommended for beginners:
Both the 4km and 7km routes are short in distance and have extremely low cumulative elevation gains of 400m and 700m, making them ideal for those experiencing trail running for the first time.
The time limit is very generous, 2 hours for the 4km course and 2 hours and 10 minutes for the 7km course, so you can participate as if you were hiking. It is about a 1km walk from Hankyu Minoo Station, so it is easily accessible by public transportation. Mini seminars are also held, so you can ease any worries about equipment and riding techniques.
The participation fee is also reasonable, starting from 2,000 yen for the 4km course.
Official page:
https://trailrunners.jp/event/osaka-2026/
4. 23rd Nakayama Mountain Range/Hokusetsu Omineyama TRAINIC STAGE
Date and time: Sunday, April 5, 2026
Venue: Near the rotary on the north side of Yamamoto Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation:
13km course (details on cumulative elevation gain will be announced at a later date)
Number of participants: Limited (Applications will close once capacity is reached)
parking: Information not disclosed (public transportation recommended)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This course runs from the Nakayama mountain range (highest peak of Nakayama: 478m) to Mount Omine in Hokusetsu (552m).
The view from the first rocky area on the Nakayama mountain trail is a spectacular spot overlooking the Osaka Plain, Kobe city, and even Awaji Island in the distance. You can fully enjoy the ridgeline walk and the view, which are the true joys of trail running. This historic event will be held for the 23rd time.
Recommended for beginners:
At just 13km, it's perfect for beginners. It's easily accessible, within walking distance of Yamamoto Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line, and meets the beginner's definition of "easy to get to by public transportation."
The spectacular views from the rocky outcrops are a charm that even beginners can enjoy a sense of accomplishment. As you can run on popular trails in the Kansai region, this is the perfect introductory event to fully experience the fun of trail running.
Official page:
5. 30th Kyoto Trail Run (Higashiyama Course)
Date and time: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Venue: Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Mt. Daimonji, Kitashirakawa, and the area around Mt. Hiei
Distance and cumulative elevation:
28km / Cumulative altitude approx. 1,350m
Number of participants: 400 people
parking: Information not disclosed (public transportation recommended)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This course, which takes you around Kyoto's Higashiyama area, blends history and nature. The panoramic view of Kyoto city seen from the Daimonji fireplace is breathtaking. You'll pass through popular tourist spots such as Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple area, so you'll be able to experience the true joy of a "travel run."
The time limit is a generous eight hours, and this is a traditional tournament now in its 30th year.
Recommended for beginners:
The 28km course has a cumulative elevation gain of 1,350m, which is slightly above the beginner level, but the time limit is 8 hours, so you can proceed slowly while enjoying the scenery.
The course is mainly on well-maintained mountain trails, allowing you to enjoy sightseeing and trail running at the same time as running while taking in Kyoto's historical scenery.It is also easily accessible from Kyoto city, making it easy to participate by public transportation.
This is the perfect tournament for beginners to step up their game.
Official page:
https://www.actrep-sports.com/kyoto-higasiyama-trailrun/
6. Nose Myokenzan Power Trail Run 2026
Date and time: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Venue: Near Myokenguchi Station on the Nose Electric Railway in Nose Town, Osaka Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation:
- Short 14km: Total elevation gain approx. 1,100m
- Middle 23km: Total elevation gain approx. 1,500m
- Long 37km: cumulative elevation gain of approximately 2,600m
Number of participants: 250 people
parking: None (Parking available along the line, public transportation recommended)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
A full-scale trail race set in Mt. Nose Myoken. There are three categories: short, middle, and long, so you can choose the one that suits your level.
You can enjoy the nature of Nose, which can be said to be the inner sanctum of Osaka. You can also earn ITRA points, making this an ideal course for those aiming to compete in overseas races in the future.
Recommended for beginners:
The short 14km course is an easy distance to tackle, meeting the beginner's criteria of under 25km. The cumulative elevation gain is about 1,100m, which is a bit more serious, but still falls within the beginner's criteria of under 2,000m.
Located close to Nose Electric Railway's Myokenguchi Station, it is easily accessible by public transport. You can aim to improve your trail running skills while enjoying the satoyama atmosphere.
You can complete the course even if you walk as long as you stay within the time limit.
Official page:
https://www.actrep-sports.com/nose-trailrun/
7. Capital letters 100 DAIMONJI100
Date and time: February 21st (Sat) - 22nd (Sun), 2026
Venue: Yamashina Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation:
12km circular course (100km is about 8 laps)
*Distances for beginners include 12km, 24km, and 36km.
Number of participants: Limited
parking: Information not yet disclosed
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
This urban trail combines Kyoto's historical and tourist attractions with the surrounding mountains. It is a 12km circular course, so you can adjust the distance to suit your physical condition.
This easily accessible location allows you to enjoy trail running casually. You'll also have the special feeling of running the same course as advanced runners attempting the 100km course.
Recommended for beginners:
It's a 12km loop course, so beginners can try just one lap. As it's an urban trail, convenience stores and public transport are nearby, so you don't have to worry if you have to drop out.
It is easily accessible from Kyoto city and can be easily accessed by public transportation. You can choose the distance you want to walk, so you can participate in a way that suits your physical strength.
Official page:
https://go-trail.net/pages/%E5%A4%A7%E6%96%87%E5%AD%97%EF%BC%91%EF%BC%90%EF%BC%90
8. 24th Ikoma Trail Run <Summer Mountain>
Date and time: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Venue: Osaka Prefecture to Nara Prefecture (Ikoma Mountains)
Distance and cumulative elevation:
- 24km course: Approximately 24km / cumulative elevation gain 700m
- 29km course: Approximately 29km / cumulative elevation gain 975m
Number of participants: Each course has a capacity of 400 people
parking: None (using public transportation)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The same course as the winter mountain version is held in summer. You can enjoy the different expressions of the Ikoma mountain range depending on the season. The feeling of exhilaration running through the lush forests in summer is exceptional.
The event starts early in the morning, and measures are taken to combat the heat.
Recommended for beginners:
Like the winter mountain version, the 24km course has a cumulative elevation gain of 700m, making it suitable for beginners. You can experience trail running while enjoying the summer greenery.
It is easily accessible by public transport and has a generous six-hour time limit, making it ideal for those who have experience in the winter mountain version and would like to try again.
Official page:
https://www.actrep-sports.com/ikoma-natsuyama/
9. 15th Diamond Trail Run Championship 2026
Date and time: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Venue: Katsuragi City, Nara Prefecture - Wakayama Prefecture Start: Katsuragi City Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Training Center Parking Lot (15 minutes walk from Taimadera Station on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line)
Finish: Kiimiso Shita Parking Lot (walk from Kii-Kamiya Station on the Nankai Koya Line)
Distance and cumulative elevation:
33km / cumulative elevation gain approx. 1,800m
Number of participants: 300 people
parking: Parking available at both the start and finish
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
A race that runs along the historic Diamond Trail, connecting the three prefectures of Nara, Osaka, and Wakayama. A traditional event that has been challenged by many runners.
It is characterized by steep ridges and wooden stairs, but the trail is well maintained so even beginners can take on the challenge. There is a generous eight-hour time limit.
Recommended for beginners:
At 33km, it is slightly above the beginner level, but the cumulative elevation gain of 1,800m is less than 2,000m, and the time limit is eight hours, so you have plenty of time to complete it even if you walk a little.
The sense of accomplishment of running along the historic Diamond Trail is exceptional. It's a great way for beginners to improve their skills, and the cool autumn weather is also appealing.
It is also accessible by public transport.
Official page:
https://www.actrep-sports.com/diamond-trailrun/
10. Ninja Trail Running Race (Mie Prefecture)
Date and time: Around November 2026 (held on November 2nd in 2025)
Venue: Iga City, Mie Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation:
- Short 22km course (enjoyable even for beginners)
- Long 48km
- IGAGOE (for advanced users)
Number of participants: Limited
parking: can be
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
Set in Iga City, known as the home of ninjas, the course connects mountain villages rich in nature with mountain passes. This unique ninja-themed competition is highly entertaining.
This Satoyama trail event allows you to enjoy both local culture and nature at the same time, and is open to everyone from beginners to advanced hikers.
Recommended for beginners:
The short 22km course is under the beginner's standard of 25km, and the cumulative elevation gain is relatively low. It's a Satoyama trail with few technically difficult sections. The ninja theme makes it a fun course to participate in.
It's relatively easy to access from the Kansai region, so it's recommended to combine your participation with sightseeing. The participation fee is also reasonable at 8,000 yen for the short course, making it an easy challenge even for first-timers.
Official page:
summary
The 2026 Kansai Trail Run Competitions are packed with events that even beginners can participate in with confidence. Use the five criteria for beginners introduced in this article (distance under 25km, cumulative elevation gain under 2,000m, time limit of over 5 hours, maintained trails, and easy access by public transportation) as a guide to choose an event that suits your level.
We recommend starting with ultra-short distances of 4-7km, then progressing to medium distances of 13-24km, and then to long distances of 25km or more. Enjoy trail running without rushing, avoiding injury, and putting safety first.
Trail running is an appealing sport that allows you to experience the exhilaration of running through nature, the breathtaking views from mountain peaks and ridgelines, and the sense of accomplishment you feel when you finish the course. Why not make your trail running debut in 2026 in the beautiful mountains of Kansai?
