10th Koshu Alps Haute Route Challenge 2026 - Yamanashi

The 10th Koshu Alps Haute Route Challenge takes place in Kōshū, Yamanashi Prefecture, on Sunday 8 November 2026, with the Enzan Fureai no Mori Comprehensive Park as its start and finish. The Japanese mountain-running event is known for demanding ridge trails, views towards Mount Fuji and long sections of wooded singletrack through beech and oak forest. The organiser estimates that over 80 per cent of the routes are trails.

Mountain courses and championship

The flagship Klesha 108 covers approximately 108 km with 6,500 m of climbing. Starting at 03:00, participants complete the Haute Route circuit and then return for the Marronnier circuit, with an 18-hour overall cut-off. The 70 km Haute Route also starts at 03:00, climbs about 4,700 m and closes at 21:00. Crucially, this 70 km course hosts the 2026 All-Japan Skyrunning Championships SKYULTRA category, confirmed by the Japan Skyrunning Association. Championship competitors must meet separate association qualification and registration rules; accompanying pacers are not permitted for the national championship.

The 55 km Lily Route starts at 06:00, with approximately 3,600 m ascent and a 15-hour limit. The 36 km Marronnier Route starts at 09:00, with approximately 1,900 m ascent and an 11-hour limit. Junior and family-oriented Trail Quest races of approximately 1.5 km or 3 km are also programmed. Runners should consult the official course files for checkpoints and mountain conditions; the longer routes demand proven trail-running experience.

Practical arrangements

Entrants in the 108 km and 70 km races must collect their race information and complete required checks on Saturday 7 November, rather than race morning. The organiser lists a paid pre-dawn bus option from Isawa-Onsen and Yamanashi stations, and daytime shuttle services linking Enzan railway station with the race venue. Approximately 500 free parking spaces are listed. Accommodation should be arranged independently.

The official entry window closed on 31 August 2026. Participants should check the organisers' final equipment rules, course-map downloads, compulsory safety items and weather decisions before travelling. The official programme includes race mementoes and prizes for leading finishers.