Hello, this is OLENO.
Do you want to try trail running for the first time in 2026, but are worried about whether you can complete the course or which event to choose?
The Tokai region is home to many trail running events that even beginners can enjoy. In this article, we will introduce six carefully selected beginner-friendly events that are scheduled or expected to be held in 2026.
Definition of a beginner 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 so it is 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.
6 Trail Running Events for Beginners in the Tokai Region
1. Inuyama MOMOTARO Trail Running Race
Date and time: Saturday, January 31, 2026, Sunday, February 1, 2026
Venue: Around Kurisu Elementary School, Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Run & Walk 10km (cumulative elevation not disclosed) / Long 17km (time limit 6 hours)
Number of participants: 100-499 people
parking: Information not disclosed (public transportation recommended)
Characteristics and appeal of lace :
Satoyama Trail is held in Inuyama, the land of the Momotaro legend.
The course is designed to be beginner-friendly, allowing runners to enjoy the sunlight filtering through the trees and the sound of the babbling brook, and this is a family-friendly event that also includes a kids' race.
Recommended for beginners:
The 10km run and walk category has a time limit of 5 hours and is designed to allow participants to complete the course while walking.
Participants from elementary school age are welcome, and the warm atmosphere allows you to enjoy the event with your family and friends.
Official URL: https://inuyama-momotaro-trail.com/
2. DA MONDE TRAIL Presents “Way to Go!”
Date and time: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Venue: Aichi Prefectural Forest Moritopia Aichi Event Square
Distance and cumulative elevation: Approximately 8.3km / Total elevation gain approximately 580m (Time limit 3 hours)
Number of participants: We are accepting entries in multiple categories, including solo and pair competitions.
parking: Available (Aichi Prefectural Forest parking lot can be used)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
You can take on the 8.3km circular course solo or in pairs.
There is a "Rookie Division" for those trying trail running for the first time, making this the perfect competition for your debut.
Recommended for beginners:
The distance is short, so it's possible to complete the course within the three-hour time limit.
The Pairs Division is open to parents and children or couples, and the Rookie Division for beginners has a discounted participation fee, allowing you to easily experience the fun of trail running.
Official URL: https://damonde.jp/waytogo/
3. Matsusaka Kahada Gorge Trail Run
Date and time: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Venue: Iitaka area, Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: Trail category: 14km / Jogging category: 5.5km
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Yes (parking available around the venue)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The course runs along the beautiful valley of Kahada Gorge. This is a relatively new competition that began in 2024 and is designed to welcome beginners and allow them to fully enjoy the local nature.
Recommended for beginners:
The moderate distance of 14km makes it ideal for first-time trail racers. There is also a 5.5km jogging category, perfect for those who want to start with a shorter distance.
Official URL: https://www.matsusakakahadakyotrail.com/
4. 9th Kakamigahara Alps Panorama Trail Run
Date and time: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Venue: Unuma Forest Park, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: 15km / Total elevation gain approx. 650m (Time limit 5 hours)
Number of participants: 200 people in each department
parking: Available (Shuttle bus available from Unuma no Mori Park Parking Lot and Meitetsu Shin-Unuma Station)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
Conveniently located within an hour from Nagoya.
This is a spectacular trail set in the Kakamigahara Alps, which offer fantastic views, with the Northern Alps and Mt. Ontake in the distance.
Recommended for beginners:
The course is beginner-friendly, with a cumulative elevation gain of 650m over 15km.
The 5-hour time limit gives you ample time to complete the course, and the shuttle bus service makes access easy.
Official URL: https://www.actrep-sports.com/kakamigahara-trailrun/
5. Grape Forest Trail Run
Date and time: Sunday, May 10, 2026
Venue: Usuda Seiko Kita Parking Lot, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture (Start/Finish)
Distance and cumulative elevation: There are multiple categories (see official website for details)
Number of participants: Undisclosed
parking: Yes (parking lot available at the venue)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
A course rich in nature around the Kannan Alps and Kakamigahara Alps.
The event is attractive for its easy access, just an hour by car from Nagoya, and will be held in 2026 as the 10th anniversary tournament.
Recommended for beginners:
There is a short distance category for beginners, and the atmosphere is friendly, with local trail runners gathering together.
It's easily accessible and can easily be enjoyed on a day trip.
Official URL: https://www.fudoforest-trailrun.com/
6. Matsudaira Tenka Trail Run
Date and time: Saturday, October 24, 2026 *The 2025 event was held in December, but will be moved to October in 2026.
schedule Venue: Matsudairago Festival Square, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture
Distance and cumulative elevation: 15km / Total elevation gain approx. 770m (Time limit 5 hours)
Number of participants: 300 people (total of all departments)
parking: Available (reservations required, shuttle bus available)
Characteristics and appeal of lace:
The event will be held in the historic Toyota/Matsudaira area, home to Matsudaira Toshogu Shrine.
The course runs through Mt. Rokusho and Mt. Horoyama, making this the perfect race for beginners and juniors to make their debut.
Recommended for beginners:
The course is beginner-friendly, with a cumulative elevation gain of 770m over 15km and a time limit of 5 hours.
There is also a 6km division for elementary school students, so families can participate. The local community is very supportive and the warm hospitality is a great attraction.
Official URL: https://www.actrep-sports.com/matsudaira-tenka-trailrun/
summary
The Tokai region has a wide variety of trail running competitions that even beginners can take on with confidence.
All six 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.
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 Tokai region in 2026? We wholeheartedly hope you complete the course!
