トレイルランナーズカップ櫛形31K 2026

The Trail Runners Cup Kushigata 31K is a July trail race held at Michi-no-Eki Tainai, adjacent to Tarugahashi River Park in Tainai City, Niigata Prefecture. The primary event is a 31 km mountain run crossing most of the Kushigata Mountain Range, which the organizers note is Japan’s smallest such range. An 18 km option is available for those seeking similar terrain over a shorter distance. The course follows the Kushigata ridgeline through beech forest, offering views of the Iide mountains from open sections. The name Kushigata suggests the challenge: the route features frequent zigzag climbs and descents, demanding climbing and descending skill, stamina, and the speed to maintain momentum between difficult segments. Previously known as Kushigata Wind Trail, the current organizers frankly describe the race as difficult, warning that many participants may not find it enjoyable. Volunteers contribute to course preparation, venue setup, runner guidance, and course sweeping, lending the event a personal local character distinct from a large-scale city race.