Nice to meet you, I'm Hiroki, a staff member at OLENO.
Hyogo Prefecture, centered around the Rokko Mountains, is a mecca for trail running with good access from urban areas.
For the 2026 edition, we have carefully selected six races that meet the criteria for beginners (distance of 25km or less, cumulative elevation gain of 2000m or less, time limit of 5 hours or more, well-maintained hiking trails, and good access by public transportation).
[Important] Trail races in Hyogo Prefecture are concentrated between January and August, with fewer beginner-friendly events from September onwards. This article will explain this trend in detail, including tips on how to avoid it.
1. 15th Rokko Traverse Trail Run 2026
A popular race that runs along the famous Rokko Mountain Trail in Kansai.
This scenic route offers views from downtown Kobe to Awaji Island, allowing you to fully enjoy the Rokko Mountains in early spring. Known as one of the leading trail races in the Kansai region, it covers the main peaks of the Rokko Mountains from Sumaura Park to Takarazuka.
The 24km short course is easy for beginners to tackle, and as it follows a well-maintained mountain trail, there is a low risk of getting lost, so it is safe.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Sumaura Park, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture (Start) - Takarazuka (Finish) |
| Date and time | Saturday, March 14, 2026 |
| distance |
■24km: Accumulated elevation gain: approx. 1,600m ■38km: Accumulated elevation gain: approx. 2,000m |
| Recruitment quota | 500 people |
| Entry Deadline | ~Friday, February 20, 2026 |
| Participation conditions | Healthy men and women aged 20 or over |
| Tournament details page | https://www.actrep-sports.com/rokko-trailrun/ |
Recommended for beginners:
The 24km course has a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 1,600m, making it ideal for beginners. The well-maintained hiking trail reduces the risk of getting lost, and there are plenty of aid stations.
Both the start and finish are within walking distance of the station, making it extremely accessible. The 8-hour time limit gives you plenty of time, making it ideal for those new to the trail. The spectacular views of Kobe cityscape and Awaji Island are a highlight.
2. 23rd Nakayama Mountain Range/Hokusetsu Omineyama TRAINIC STAGE
This is a trail course of approximately 20km that runs from the Nakayama Mountain Range (highest peak 478m) to Mount Omine in Hokusetsu (552m).
The view from the rocky Nakayama mountain range is spectacular, with views stretching from the Osaka plain to Kobe city and even Awaji Island in the distance. The appeal of this trail is that it is close to the city of Takarazuka, yet you can enjoy a full-fledged mountain trail.
The official announcement states that even beginners can complete the course, making it the perfect race for a first try.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Around Hankyu Yamamoto Station, Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Date and time | Sunday, April 5, 2026 |
| distance | Approximately 20km / Cumulative altitude approximately 1,200m |
| Recruitment quota | 200 people |
| Entry Deadline | ~Sunday, March 29, 2026 |
| Participation conditions | Even beginners can complete this trail |
| Tournament details page | https://www.jls-association.com/ |
Recommended for beginners:
With a distance of approximately 20km and a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 1,200m, this course meets all the beginner requirements, and the time limit is more than five hours, giving you plenty of time. It is officially advertised as "suitable for even beginner trail runners," making it ideal for a first challenge.
It is easily accessible from Hankyu Yamamoto Station and offers a spectacular panoramic view from the rocky terrain of the Nakayama Mountain Range. Its homey atmosphere with a capacity of 200 people is also appealing.
3. Round 4 TAMBA Ashida Castle Cherry Blossom Trail 2026
This is one of the TAMBA series races, and is a 22km course that runs around Ashida Castle, which is lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees.
There is also a pre-race party, and the homey atmosphere is appealing. It is a community-based tournament with warm support from local people, so even beginners can participate with confidence.
There are also kids and beginner categories, making the tournament fun for the whole family.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Higashi-Ashida, Aogaki-cho, Tanba City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Date and time | Saturday, April 4, 2026 |
| distance | Approximately 22km / Total elevation gain: Approximately 1,850m |
| Recruitment quota | Undisclosed |
| Entry Deadline | ~Late March 2026 |
| Participation conditions | Healthy men and women (kids, couples, and beginners categories available) |
| Tournament details page | https://trailrun-tamba.com/ |
Recommended for beginners:
The distance is 22km, which is within the conditions, but the cumulative elevation gain is about 1,850m, so it is a bit high, so it is suitable for beginners to intermediate runners. There are also kids and beginner categories, so it is a race that the whole family can enjoy.
The event is held during the cherry blossom season, so the scenery is spectacular. There is also a pre-event party, and the atmosphere is homey, with the warm support of the local people. You can fully enjoy the nature of Tamba.
4. KOBE TRAIL 2026
This international urban trail entertainment festival will also host the first round of the Golden Trail World Series.
This is one of the largest trail events in the Kansai region, where you can enjoy the night view of Kobe and the natural beauty of Mount Rokko. It caters to a wide range of levels, from short distances of just 4km to the 21km World Series.
The 4km course is open to those in the fourth grade and above, making it the perfect trail running debut.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Mount Maya, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture (race venue) |
| Date and time | to be decided |
| distance |
■ 4km (4/20): Total elevation gain: approx. 400m ■ 15km (April 20th): Total elevation gain: approx. 1,500m ■21km (4/19): Cumulative altitude approximately 2,110m |
| Recruitment quota | Varies by event |
| Entry Deadline | to be decided |
| Participation conditions | Healthy men and women (4th grade and above are eligible to participate in the 4km race) |
| Tournament details page | https://www.kobe-trail.com/ |
Recommended for beginners:
The 4km course has a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 400m and is suitable for absolute beginners and families. Participants must be in the fourth grade of elementary school or above, making it the perfect trail running debut.
The 15km course also has a generous time limit, making it ideal for beginners to intermediate runners. The venue is Mount Maya's Kukuseidai and can be accessed by cable car. You can enjoy a luxurious experience where you can experience the atmosphere of an international competition.
5. 11th Mt. Rokko Trail Run Summer Picnic
This is a summer trail event held on Mountain Day.
This is a picnic-like event where you can enjoy the nature-rich Mount Rokko with your friends and colleagues. The race is based in the Arboretum and runs through a lush course.
There is no age limit for the 10km course, and families can participate. It is a popular event where you can run while enjoying the summer forest bathing.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture Kobe Municipal Arboretum (Start & Finish) |
| Date and time | Monday, August 11, 2026 (National Holiday) Mountain Day |
| distance |
■ 10km: Accumulated elevation gain: approx. 500m ■28km: Accumulated elevation gain: approx. 1,500m |
| Recruitment quota | Total 400 people (28km: 200 people / 10km: 200 people) |
| Entry Deadline | ~July 24, 2026 (Thursday) |
| Participation conditions | 20 years old and over (28km) / No age limit (10km) |
| Tournament details page | https://www.actrep-sports.com/mt-rokko-picnic/ |
Recommended for beginners:
The 10km course has a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 500m and is suitable for absolute beginners. There are no age restrictions, so families can participate. The 28km course is a little longer, but there is a generous time limit, so you can fully enjoy Rokko in the summer.
The event is held within the Arboretum, making it easily accessible. It's about a 10-minute bus ride from Kita-Suzurandai Station on the Kobe Electric Railway. The charm of the event is its homey atmosphere, which makes it feel like a picnic.
6. 15th World Geopark Trail Running & Cross Country (Kannabe Plateau)
The tournament will be held in the San'in Coast Geopark area, which has been certified as a Global Geopark.
You can experience the magnificent nature of the volcanic Kannabe Plateau. A full-scale 60km trail race is also held at the same time, catering to a wide range of levels.
The cool climate of the plateau makes it comfortable to ride even in summer.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | Kannabe Plateau, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Date and time | Sunday, August 16, 2026 |
| distance |
■ Cross-country 10km: Total elevation gain: approx. 300m ■Souwu Short 20km: Total elevation gain: approx. 1,200m |
| Recruitment quota | Undisclosed |
| Entry Deadline | ~Late July 2026 |
| Participation conditions | Healthy men and women |
| Tournament details page | https://www.actrep-sports.com/geopark-kannabe/ |
Recommended for beginners:
The 10km cross-country course has a cumulative elevation gain of about 300m and is suitable for beginners. The 20km Sobudake short course is also designed to be easy for beginners to tackle.
The cool climate of the plateau makes riding comfortable even in summer. Located about 40 minutes by car from the center of Toyooka City, you can enjoy the great outdoors of the Tajima area. The magnificent scenery of the Global Geopark is an attraction.
[Important] Regarding tournaments for beginners from September onwards
In Hyogo Prefecture , there are very few competitions held between September and December that meet the beginner's criteria (distance of 25km or less, cumulative elevation gain of 2000m or less).
Major tournaments held in the fall and winter season (for intermediate and advanced skiers)
- Flash Trail Challenge 2026 Autumn (scheduled for September): Approximately 80km / cumulative distance of approximately 3,900m [for advanced cyclists]
- Rokko 24 Peaks Traverse (scheduled for November): Approx. 47km / approx. 3,000m total distance [for intermediate to advanced hikers]
- TAMBA Series Races (year-round): Over 14km with high cumulative elevation gain [for intermediate to advanced runners]
Why there are so few tournaments for beginners in autumn and winter
- Autumn is a great season for long-distance races for intermediate and advanced runners, with good weather.
- The shorter daylight hours make it difficult to hold short-distance races for beginners
- In winter (December), the number of tournaments held decreases due to the drop in temperature.
- Spring and summer are for beginners, while autumn is for intermediate and advanced skiers.
Three options for enjoying trail running from September onwards
[Option 1] Participate in practice sessions and seminars
Hyogo Prefecture holds trail running seminars for beginners throughout the year.
◆ First Rokko Trail Run Introduction Series
- Locations: Okamoto, Arima Onsen, Kabutoyama, etc.
- Distance: 10-15km, cumulative altitude: about 500-800m
- Small group with coach accompaniment, learn equipment, etiquette, and riding techniques
- Held approximately once or twice a month
- Official website: https://moshicom.com/ Search for "Rokko beginner"
merit: Lower cost than competitions, you can carefully learn the knowledge and skills necessary for beginners, make trail friends, and enjoy at your own pace
[Option 2] Autumn tournaments for beginners in other prefectures in the Kansai region
In the Kansai area outside of Hyogo Prefecture, beginner tournaments are also held in the fall.
◆ 7th Hira Biwako View Trail Run (Shiga Prefecture, October 4th)
- 7km course: cumulative elevation gain of approximately 700m [for beginners]
- A scenic trail overlooking Lake Biwa
- Official: https://www.actrep-sports.com/hira-trailrun/
◆ 31st Kyoto Trail Run Kitayama Course (Kyoto Prefecture, October 17th)
- Approximately 33km/Total distance of approximately 1,360m [For beginners and intermediates]
- Beautiful autumn foliage in the mountains of Kyoto
- Official: https://www.actrep-sports.com/kyoto-kitayama/
◆ 15th Diamond Trail Run Championship (Nara Prefecture, November 7th)
- Approximately 33km/Total distance of approximately 1,800m [For beginners and intermediates]
- A full-scale trail running through the famous Kongo Mountains in Kansai
- Official:https://www.actrep-sports.com/diamond-trailrun/
merit: Enjoy beautiful scenery during the autumn foliage season, experience trails throughout the Kansai region in cool, comfortable weather.
[Option 3] Self-trail running (non-competitive)
The Rokko mountain range has many well-maintained hiking trails, making it ideal for self-trail running.
◆ Recommended courses for beginners
1. Twenty Cross Tokugawa Road Course
- Distance: Approximately 20km, Cumulative altitude: Approximately 800m
- Access: Hankyu Ashiyagawa Station to Arima Onsen
- Features: Cool course along the stream, beautiful autumn leaves
2. Okamoto - Mount Rokko's highest peak - Arima Onsen
- Distance: Approximately 15km, Total elevation gain: Approximately 900m
- Access: Hankyu Okamoto Station to Arima Onsen Station
- Special feature: Conquer the highest peak of Mt. Rokko and finish in a hot spring
3. Suma Alps to Yokoonomichi
- Distance: Approximately 10km, Cumulative altitude: Approximately 500m
- Access: Sanyo Sumaura Park Station to Myohoji Station
- Special features: Spectacular rocky scenery, panoramic view of Kobe city
Points to note: Always carry a map and GPS app, descend before sunset, avoid running alone, cancel or withdraw if the weather worsens, and it is recommended to take out trail running insurance.
summary
Above, we have introduced the trail races in Hyogo Prefecture that will be held in 2026 (which are easy for beginners to participate in).
Recommended for beginners by level:
[Beginners] Trail running debut
- KOBE TRAIL 4km - Elementary school students and above can participate, experience the atmosphere of an international race
- Mt. Rokko Summer Picnic 10km - A picnic experience with forest bathing
- Global Geopark Trail Running 10km Cross Country - Comfortable in the cool climate of the plateau
[Beginner] Introduction to trails
- Nakayama Mountain Range TRAINIC STAGE 20km - "Even beginners can complete the course" - Official information
- Rokko Traverse Trail Run 24km - Experience one of the best traverse routes in Kansai
- KOBE TRAIL 15km - Experience the atmosphere of an international race
[Beginner/Intermediate] Step up
- TAMBA Ashida Castle Cherry Blossom Trail 22km - Cherry Blossom Lined Trail and Local Support
- Mt. Rokko Summer Picnic 28km - Summer Forest Bathing Trail
Attractions of the Hyogo Prefecture Trail Race:
- Easy access from urban areas : Mount Rokko is 30 minutes to an hour from downtown Kobe, and public transportation is extensive
- Spectacular scenery route : A ridge walk with a panoramic view of Osaka Bay, Kobe city, and Awaji Island, one of Japan's three great night views
- Well-maintained hiking trails : The Rokko Mountains are one of Japan's leading hiking trail areas, with a low risk of getting lost
- Enjoyable all year round : cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy scenery in winter.
- Active trail community : frequent seminars and training sessions, a culture that warmly welcomes beginners
Hyogo Prefecture's trail races are concentrated between January and August, so we recommend actively participating in competitions during this period, and then from September onwards enjoying practice sessions, competitions in other Kansai prefectures, and self-trail runs. Centered around the Rokko Mountains, there is a full lineup that can be enjoyed by beginners to intermediate runners!
