#Japan #Trail Running #NIPPON TRGP #Komagane, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba

NIPPON TRAIL RUNNING GRAND PRIX SERIES 2026

The excitement around the NIPPON TRAIL RUNNING GRAND PRIX SERIES (NIPPON TRGP) is palpable as the organizers announce the pivotal details for the 2026 season. This series aims to elevate Japan's esteemed reputation in the trail running community worldwide, featuring a total prize pool of 10 million yen—the highest in Japan's history for trail running competitors.

The series will encompass three main events:

• - NIPPON TRGP CENTRAL ALPS 38k: Taking place on July 5, 2026, in Komagane City and Miyata Village, this race covers 38 km, ascending and descending in challenging terrains.
• - NIPPON TRGP NOZAWA-ONSEN 37k: Set for July 19, 2026, in Nozawa Onsen Village, participants will tackle 37 km filled with beautiful yet demanding landscapes.
• - NIPPON TRGP HAKUBA 29k: Finally, on September 13, 2026, the event will conclude in Hakuba Village, providing runners with another 29 km course to challenge their limits.

Each of these races will showcase stunning views, shifting terrains, and an elevation challenge that highlights Japan’s unique mountainous environment, dubbed a country with some of the most rare trail running conditions worldwide. The 2026 NIPPON TRGP aims not just to compete but to establish an iconic series that exemplifies the beauty and difficulty of trail running in Japan.

Runners from both Japan and abroad are expected to fill these courses, especially since each event will award series points to male and female competitors. Through collective points from all three races, an annual champion will be crowned, with rewards of 3 million yen allocated to each series champion. Additionally, the top three performers in both the male and female categories for each race will receive cash prizes, promoting competitive spirit and high-performance athletics among the participants.

The series organizers have observed a growing global interest in shorter race formats—which typically range around 30 km—making these events appealing not only to seasoned trail runners but also to aspiring athletes seeking to engage in a dynamic racing environment. With a focus on entertainment and competition, the series is designed to enrich the allure and culture surrounding trail running in Japan.

For those wishing to join this exciting challenge, detailed information regarding each race and entry procedures can be found on the official NIPPON TRGP SERIES website (www.nippon-trgp-series.com) or follow their official Instagram at @nippon_trgp_series. Everyone involved in the trail running community and beyond is invited to partake in this thrilling series in the magnificent Alpine backdrop of Japan.

Race Overview

As the NIPPON TRGP kicks off in 2026, it represents not just a series of races but a festival of athleticism paired with the beauty of nature, designed to inspire and challenge athletes at all levels. Let us delve deeper into each event:

1. NIPPON TRGP CENTRAL ALPS 38k

• - Date: July 5, 2026
• - Location: Komagane City / Miyata Village, Nagano Prefecture
• - Details: Distance of 37.5 km with a positive elevation gain of 2,571m and descent of 2,597m.
• - Eligibility: High school students and older (born before April 1, 2011).
• - Participants: Limited to 500 runners.
• - Entry Fee: 15,000 yen (11,000 yen for high school students).
• - Entry Period: February 1, 2026 - June 15, 2026 (until full).

2. NIPPON TRGP NOZAWA-ONSEN 37k

• - Date: July 19, 2026
• - Location: Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture
• - Details: Covers 37 km with a vertical gain and descent of 2,590m.
• - Eligibility: High school students and older (born before April 1, 2011).
• - Participants: 600 max.
• - Entry Fee: 18,000 yen (14,600 yen for high school students).
• - Entry Period: February 16, 2026 - June 21, 2026 (until full).

3. NIPPON TRGP HAKUBA 29k

• - Date: September 13, 2026
• - Location: Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture
• - Details: 29.8 km with 1,698m of elevation gain and a descent of 1,699m.
• - Eligibility: High school students and older (born before April 1, 2011).
• - Participants: Limited to 500.
• - Entry Fee: 15,000 yen (11,400 yen for high school students).
• - Entry Period: March 1, 2026 - August 14, 2026 (until total capacity reached).

In conclusion, the NIPPON TRAIL RUNNING GRAND PRIX SERIES is a grand event poised to inspire athletes and engage the trail running community. Mark your calendars for a season filled with adventure, scenic glory, and competitive thrill in Japan's breathtaking mountain landscapes!