Hello, this is Hiroki from OLENO.
We have introduced trail races taking place in the Kansai region, but this time we will introduce trail races taking place in the big city of Osaka. Basically, we have found races that are easy for beginners to participate in, so please use this as a reference if you are a beginner or are thinking of starting trail running.
[2025 Edition] 5 trail races in Hyogo that are easy for beginners to participate in
[2025 Edition] 5 trail races in Kyoto that are easy for beginners to participate in
Katano Big Rock Trail
This is not just a trail running race, but a trail race based on the concept of a "mountain festival" that utilizes Katano's Satoyama. The course is set around the "Katano Three Peaks" of Mount Ryuo, Mount Hatafuri, and Mount Katano, and the course passes through popular spots for mountain climbing enthusiasts. Mount Katano offers a 360-degree panoramic view, allowing participants to enjoy the magnificent scenery.
| Location | Katano City, Osaka Prefecture |
| Date and time | Sunday, February 2, 2025 |
| distance |
Approximately 23km (cumulative altitude) approximately 1,380m Approximately 46km, cumulative elevation gain approximately 2,760m |
| Number of applicants | 600 people |
| Entry Deadline | ~ Monday, January 13, 2025 |
| Tournament details | https://crossd.jp/bigrock2025/about/ |
Trail Runners Cup Osaka Minoh 2025
Set in Minoh Forest, which overlooks downtown Osaka, parents and children can enjoy a leisurely hike. The well-maintained trail course in Minoh Park is safe for beginners and families to participate in.
| Location | Ryuanji Temple Square, Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture |
| Date and time | Sunday, March 2, 2025 |
| distance | 4km (Participants from age 3) |
| Number of applicants | not clear |
| Entry Deadline | ~February 14, 2025 |
| Tournament details | https://trailrunners.jp/event/osaka-2025/ |
IKOMA Nature Trail
The IKOMA Nature Trail is centered around the Ikoma Traverse Route, and is designed with relatively gentle ups and downs, making it a comfortable course to run on. Although the distance is long at 45km, the course does not have steep ups and downs, making it easy for even beginners to try. Located on the border between Osaka and Nara prefectures, it is characterized by a rich natural environment and beautiful scenery. There are many points along the course where you can get a panoramic view of the Osaka Plain, and the view from "Bokura no Hiroba" in particular is known as a spectacular view.
| Location | Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture |
| Date and time | Sunday, March 2, 2025 |
| distance | Distance/cumulative elevation gain: approx. 45km/approx. 1900m |
| Number of applicants | 200 people |
| Entry Deadline | ~ February 16, 2025 |
| Tournament details | https://soratrail.wixsite.com/ikoma2025 |
8th Nose Myokensan Power Trail Run 2025
The Nose Myokenzan Power Trail Run is set in Nose/Toyonocho, which is one of Japan's most beautiful rural areas, even though it is located near Osaka. The area is dotted with power spots such as Nose Myokenzan, the most sacred Nichiren sect site in the Kansai region, Kodaiji Temple, Yoshikawa Hachiman Shrine, and Hontakiji Temple. By touring these famous sites, you can enjoy history and nature at the same time. With a comprehensive support system for participants, including the setting up of aid stations and the provision of pork soup after the race, this Osaka trail race is also recommended for beginners.
| Location | 130-1 Yoshikawa, Toyonocho, Toyonogun, Osaka Prefecture |
| Date and time | May 24, 2025 (Saturday) |
| distance | ■37km: Cumulative elevation gain 2600m ■23km: Cumulative elevation 1500m+ ■14km: Cumulative elevation 1100m+ |
| Number of applicants | 250 people |
| Entry Deadline | ~April 24, 2025 |
| Tournament details | https://www.actrep-sports.com/nose-trailrun/ |
22nd Ikoma Trail Run <Summer Mountain>
This trail running course allows you to enjoy the beautiful nature of the Ikoma mountain range, and the distance is set suitable for beginners. It is also easily accessible from Osaka city, making it an attractive course that allows you to easily participate. There are four aid stations on the 27km course and two on the 20km course, but it is recommended that you bring your own basic drinks and snacks. There is also a baggage storage service, where you can leave one piece of luggage per person until the finish line.
| Location | Osaka Prefecture to Nara Prefecture |
| Date and time | Saturday, July 26, 2025 |
| distance | 28km: Approximately 28km/cumulative altitude 975m+ 21km: Approximately 21km/cumulative altitude 700m+ |
| Number of applicants | 400 people each |
| Entry Deadline | ~July 5, 2025 |
| Tournament details | https://www.actrep-sports.com/ikoma-natsuyama/ |
Above, we have introduced you to some trail running races in Osaka that are easy for beginners to participate in. Please give them a try!
