第5回 五頭登山競走 2026

The Gozu Mountain Race takes participants directly up Mt. Gozu in Agono City, Niigata Prefecture, typically held in September. It is a short skyrunning and trail race, approximately 4.4 km with 700 m of elevation gain, concluding at the Bell of Friendship on Gono-mine. Participants begin in groups, with wave starts an option, and no time limit is imposed. The event has a limited field, ranging from 100 to 499 individuals, featuring general and JSA-registered elite categories, and is open to those aged 13 and older. Mt. Gozu serves as Agono’s local landmark, attracting around 100,000 visitors annually, with the Gozu Onsenkyo hot spring area situated in its foothills. The organizer indicates that regular hikers and joggers can complete the course, though previous participants report the climb is more demanding than its short distance implies. One review suggested the course exceeded 6 km, while another deemed it more appropriate for intermediate or advanced runners. Nevertheless, the race attracts first-time participants, marathoners using it for training, and locals with personal connections to the mountain. One individual even carried incense for a memorial climb following news of a past accident on Mt. Gozu.