Japan OSJ Trail Series

The OSJ Trail Running Series is a renowned trail running event series in Japan, organized by POWER SPORTS. OSJ stands for Outdoor Sports Japan. It features multiple races held across various scenic locations in Japan, offering a range of distances to cater to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced trail runners. Below is an overview of the series based on the search results:

Key Features of the OSJ Trail Running Series

1. Diverse Race Locations and Distances
   The series includes races in diverse regions such as Nagano, Aichi, Ibaraki, Fukushima, and Hyogo, showcasing Japan's natural beauty. Distances range from short courses like 11K to ultra-marathons like 100K and 100 miles 36.

2. Challenging Courses
   The courses are known for their difficulty, featuring steep climbs, technical trails, and varying terrains such as forest paths, ridges, and mountain streams. The OSJ ONTAKE 100, for example, takes place near Mount Ontake and includes unmaintained forest roads 12.

3. Night Starts and Long-Distance Races
   Some races, like the OSJ ONTAKE 100, have night starts, adding an extra layer of challenge. The 100-mile race starts at 8:00 PM, while the 100K begins at midnight 2.

4. Community and Regional Support
   The series emphasizes regional revitalization, encouraging participants to support local communities through accommodations, dining, and shopping. This aligns with the event's goal of promoting outdoor sports and tourism in rural areas 215.

5. Affordable Participation Fees
   Compared to other trail running events, the OSJ series is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wider audience. For example, the OSJ ONTAKE100 costs ¥17,000 for 100K and ¥19,000 for 100 miles, inclusive of insurance and shuttle services 2.

6. Series Entry Options
   Participants can opt for a Series Entry, which allows them to register for all nine races in the series at a discounted rate (¥60,000). Alternatively, a 4-Entry Option lets runners choose any four races for ¥40,000 46.

7. Annual Ranking System
   The series features an annual ranking system where participants earn points based on their performance in multiple races. Runners who complete at least three races are automatically included in the rankings, with awards for top performers 15.

8. Unique Race Experiences
   Each race offers a distinct experience, such as the OSJ KAMI 100 in Hyogo, which includes single tracks, river crossings, and forest trails, or the OSJ Ontake100, which traverses sacred Mount Ontake's foothills 210.

9. Environmental and Cultural Immersion
   The series highlights Japan's natural and cultural heritage, with races passing through historic sites, hot springs, and pristine landscapes. For instance, the Kaga Spa Trail Endurance 100 by UTMB (formerly part of the OSJ series) showcases the beauty of Ishikawa Prefecture 11.

10. Supportive Atmosphere
    The events are known for their friendly and welcoming environment, with warm staff and a focus on pure trail running enjoyment. The series attracts both local and international participants, fostering a sense of community 15.

2025 OSJ Trail Running Series Schedule

1. OSJ Shinshiro Trail 11K – March 22 (Aichi)

2. OSJ Shinshiro Trail 32K & Double 64K – March 22-23 (Aichi)

3. OSJ Okukuji Trail – May 24-25 (Ibaraki)

4. OSJ ONTAKE100 – July 19-20 (Nagano)

5. OSJ Adatara Mountain Trail 14K – September 6 (Fukushima)

6. OSJ Adatara Mountain Trail 50K – September 6-7 (Fukushima)

7. OSJ ONTAKE50 – September 23 (Nagano)

8. OSJ KOUMI100 – October 11-13 (Nagano)

9. OSJ KAMI 100 – November 1-3 (Hyogo)

The OSJ Trail Running Series is a premier trail running event in Japan, combining challenging courses, stunning landscapes, and a strong community spirit. Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or a beginner looking to explore trail running, the series offers something for everyone. For more details, you can visit the official website or refer to the event pages