#Japan #Sapporo #Red Bull 400 #Okurayama

Get Ready for the Red Bull 400

In an exhilarating race set to take place on May 16, 2026, Red Bull Japan is calling on participants to sign up for the world-renowned hill climb event, Red Bull 400. Known as one of the most grueling races worldwide, competitors will race uphill at the Okurayama Ski Jump in Sapporo.

The event will challenge athletes to race 400 meters uphill, with categories for both men and women, as well as relay options. Participants will experience inclines of up to 37 degrees, making it steeper than some of the highest slopes in Japan, such as those near the summit of Mount Fuji (which ranges from 32 to 35 degrees). With an elevation change of approximately 130 meters—equivalent to the height of the iconic Sapporo TV Tower—this race demands not only physical strength but also incredible stamina, as heart rates can reach 2 to 3 times above normal during the competition.

Last year, the race attracted a diverse range of entrants, from 16-year-olds to a 70-year-old participant, with a total of 1,763 challengers taking on the “Sapporo Wall.” For 2026, the competition will expand, inviting around 2,000 participants, which is the largest number in the event's history.

Each participant will receive exclusive Red Bull 400 merchandise, ensuring a fantastic keepsake of this extreme challenge. Complete readiness for the race awaits those who dare to push their limits—participants will experience not just the physical triumph but also breathtaking views from the course.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Red Bull 400
• - Date: May 16, 2026 (Registration opens at 7:30 AM, event ends at 5:00 PM)
• - Location: Okurayama Ski Jump, 1274 Miyano-Mori, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
• - Race Format: Sprint hill climb at the ski jump large hill (400m course, average incline of 35 degrees, maximum of 37 degrees)
• - Categories: Full distance individual (men's and women's), 4×100m relay (men’s, open, student team competition)
• - Capacity: 1,050 individuals for individual races (combined for men and women) / 216 relay teams.

Note: Mixed-gender or all-female relay teams will compete in the open category.

Rules

Runners' times are measured using timing chips attached to their shoes, with individual events offering both preliminary and final rounds (the top 30 from each qualifying round will proceed to finals). Each race has a maximum time limit of 15 minutes, and failing to finish within this time results in disqualification. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each category.

Eligibility

Participants must be at least 16 years old and in good health at the time of the event. Parental consent is required for minors.

Entry Fees

• - Individual Full Distance: General: ¥9,900/person, Students: ¥5,500/person
• - Relay (4 members): Men’s open relay: ¥22,000/team, Student relay: ¥11,000/team

Prices include tax and sports insurance. Please note that once payment is completed, cancellations are non-refundable under any circumstances.

Additional Information

Event URL: Red Bull 400 Official Event Page
Registration Period: February 6 - April 12, 2026, until capacity is reached
Registration Link: Participate
Organizer: Red Bull Japan Inc.
Support: City of Sapporo

About Red Bull 400

Originating in Austria in 2011, Red Bull 400 is now a global event hosted across 22 countries and 35 locations as of 2025. Japan has hosted the event since 2017, marking its ninth year of participation with over 8,000 challengers to date. Notably, in 2019, Red Bull athlete Rui Ueda set the record with a remarkable time of 3 minutes and 23 seconds. Last year, Seito Tanaka achieved a five-time winning streak in the men’s category, while Airi Fuse made it two consecutive victories in the women’s category.

Special Offers for Participants

During the race period, participants making purchases over ¥10,000 at Goldwin and THE NORTH FACE stores will receive a 10% discount. Participants can also check the sizing of the Red Bull 400 participant T-shirt at Goldwin Sapporo store starting February 11.

Event Duration: March 1 - May 31
Participating Stores: Goldwin Sapporo / THE NORTH FACE locations

JTB Accommodation Plans

A unique JTB accommodation plan is available for participants and spectators from February 18, 2026. Booking details will be available closer to the date on JTB’s website.

Exclusive Gym Access for Training

Participants can train for free at all JOYFIT and FIT365 locations in Hokkaido, supporting competitors in their final prep for the race. Verification through registration will be needed to access these facilities.

Gym Access Period: February 6 - May 16
Participating Locations: Various JOYFIT and FIT365 gyms across Hokkaido.

For any inquiries regarding participation, please contact the Red Bull 400 office at: [email protected]. For more detailed information about Red Bull, please visit www.redbull.com.