First 'Nara Ultra Marathon' Held: 3,000 Runners Experience Nara's History and Nature

On May 31, 2026, the '1st Nara Ultra Marathon' was held, starting and finishing at the Fujiwara Palace Site in Kashihara, Nara Prefecture. This inaugural event attracted significant attention, with all 3,000 entry slots filled immediately after registration opened. Runners from across the country took on the 100km challenge while experiencing Nara's history and nature. The completion rate reached 80.17%, an exceptionally high level for a first-time event. Aid stations along the course provided local delicacies such as persimmon leaf sushi and somen noodles to support the runners. Additionally, a 'U25' category for participants aged 25 and under was established to encourage challenges from the younger generation.