Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail is a 80km ultra marathon in Shiga Kogen, Japan. Distance: 80km. Elevation: 4,500m D+. Difficulty: challenging (Challenge Rating 48/100). DNF rate: 15%. Time limit: 18h. Surface: trail. Established 2015.
Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail
Shiga Kogen, Nagano, Japan
"80km in the Japanese Alps. Hot springs and snow monkey country."
An 80km mountain ultra in Japan's Shiga Kogen highlands.
The Course
A mountain ultra through Shiga Kogen Highlands in Japan's Nagano Prefecture — the highest plateau in Honshu and a 1998 Winter Olympics venue. The route crosses volcanic ridges, cedar forests, alpine marshlands, and hot spring valleys at elevations between 1,500m and 2,300m. Technical rocky trail alternates with smooth forest paths. Japanese mountain running at its most immersive — onsen recovery awaits at the finish.
mountainous
loop
7
Runner Experience
Standard aid station support with food, drinks, and basic medical assistance at regular intervals.
Post-race gathering with awards, food, and shared stories. The ultra community spirit is strong at Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail.
Race Day Weather
12°C
4° – 18°
70%
30%
Japanese highland autumn — cool, potential rain.
Stats & Records
2015
250
14:00:00
Entry
JPY 18000
February
weeks
Lore & Trivia
Shiga Kogen hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and is Japan's largest ski resort — but in summer, the highlands transform into a trail runner's paradise of volcanic ridges, alpine marshlands, and hot spring valleys. Japanese trail running culture emphasises harmony with nature and respect for mountain spirits (kami), and Shiga Kogen embodies this ethos. The post-race onsen (hot spring bath) is not optional — it's considered an essential part of the mountain experience.
- ▸ Shiga Kogen is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- ▸ Wild Japanese macaques inhabit the area.
- ▸ The course passes natural hot springs.
- ▸ Established in 2015.
- ▸ Total elevation gain: 4500m.
Japanese mountain running at 2,000m — volcanic terrain, cedar forests, and an onsen waiting at the finish. Perfection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail? +
Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail is a 80km (80km) ultra marathon with 4,500m of elevation gain. The course is loop on trail terrain.
How hard is Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail? +
Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail is rated challenging with a Challenge Rating of 48/100 (Challenging). The DNF rate is 15%. Runners have 18 hours to finish.
What is the weather like at Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail? +
Average temperature is 12°C (range 4°C to 18°C) with 70% humidity and a 30% chance of rain. Japanese highland autumn — cool, potential rain.
Are crew and pacers allowed at Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail? +
No crew access is permitted. Pacers are not allowed. Mandatory gear is required.
What is the average finish time for Shiga Kogen Extreme Trail? +
The average finish time is 14:00:00. About 250 runners finish each year. The DNF rate is 15%.
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