HIROSHIMA 50K

The HIROSHIMA 50K route takes in the mountains that overlook the city of Hiroshima from the northeast. It presents a challenging journey through peaks that have sheltered and sustained the people below for centuries.

Riverside paths trace the Ota River toward suburban residences, rice fields, and quiet farming hamlets, where locals greet you with local foods, beaming smiles, and, sometimes, even drum performances.

This course doesn't include the highest peaks of the HIROSHIMA 100K, but there are plenty of climbs that will test even the most experienced trail runners, not to mention some eye-wateringly steep descents. Don't forget to look around when the forested ridges clear to reveal views of Hiroshima Bay and the Seto Inland Sea that lie beyond.

The key to this course is avoiding the temptation to chase the early pace and keeping your powder dry. This is what separates a strong finish from a long, hard afternoon. Refuel well at AS2 Kamifukawa, but remember that it is between here and Mt. Ushita that you can still throw the race away if you don't keep something in reserve.

The final kilometers, returning along the riverside to Hiroshima Gate Park, are less a test of fitness than focus and composure. Keep your cool, and the last stretch brings you along the Peace Line, beneath the A-bomb Dome, before a joyous finish line welcome — and more than enough reason to sample the local delicacies on offer at the EXPO site.