There are some things to consider when going to race in Fujiyoshida. In our case, we took a bus from Fussa-shi and we dropped off at the Mt. Fuji 5th … MORE
There are some things to consider when going to race in Fujiyoshida. In our case, we took a bus from Fussa-shi and we dropped off at the Mt. Fuji 5th station, where there were buses to take us closer to Kawaguchi Lake. However, once you’re dropped off you still have to walk a while before getting to the center of it all.
Not sure if reservations had to be made, but our running group was able to utilize an open area/room in one of the buildings across the street from the race which had plenty of bathrooms, tables/chairs, and changing rooms for everyone. Plus a beautiful view of the lake!
Reminder: you’re probably at higher elevation than you’re used to, which may be surprising when you’re trying to breathe. Living in Japan, we’re used to relatively flat spaces, but this area is not flat. The race started with a nice incline towards Mt. Fuji, looking gorgeous. Honestly, the biggest surprise was getting a medal for an 11K. Though the swag only consisted of a pair of socks for us, I loved the medal! Would do it again and if I was here longer I would consider doing the other race distances.
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Autumn in Japan is beautiful!
There are some things to consider when going to race in Fujiyoshida. In our case, we took a bus from Fussa-shi and we dropped off at the Mt. Fuji 5th … MORE
There are some things to consider when going to race in Fujiyoshida. In our case, we took a bus from Fussa-shi and we dropped off at the Mt. Fuji 5th station, where there were buses to take us closer to Kawaguchi Lake. However, once you’re dropped off you still have to walk a while before getting to the center of it all.
Not sure if reservations had to be made, but our running group was able to utilize an open area/room in one of the buildings across the street from the race which had plenty of bathrooms, tables/chairs, and changing rooms for everyone. Plus a beautiful view of the lake!
Reminder: you’re probably at higher elevation than you’re used to, which may be surprising when you’re trying to breathe. Living in Japan, we’re used to relatively flat spaces, but this area is not flat. The race started with a nice incline towards Mt. Fuji, looking gorgeous. Honestly, the biggest surprise was getting a medal for an 11K. Though the swag only consisted of a pair of socks for us, I loved the medal! Would do it again and if I was here longer I would consider doing the other race distances.
Scenic Views
If you want a nature scenic race in Japan I highly recommend running this race. The constant views of Mt Fuji, red leaves from the trees in their autumn colors … MORE
If you want a nature scenic race in Japan I highly recommend running this race. The constant views of Mt Fuji, red leaves from the trees in their autumn colors and the lake views are majestic. The aid station are well supported with plenty of items but crowd support will be sparse. There is a large amount of international runners doing the race. Ensure you do your race logistics getting to the race as it is hectic race morning and very crowded. There is no parking at the start/finish but organizers and the city go out of their way to assist with using public transportation or you can opt for purchasing a tour package. Also ensure yo prepare for the weather as it seems to constantly change from cold to hot to wind and back to cold. The course will be challenging with a big hill after the mid point however overall it was a Great Race with Great Support
BEAUTIFUL race
This course is spectacular! You get views of Mt Fuji throughout, and even when you don't see the mountains the Japanese countryside is breathtaking (as are the hills on this … MORE
This course is spectacular! You get views of Mt Fuji throughout, and even when you don’t see the mountains the Japanese countryside is breathtaking (as are the hills on this course!). This is a large race so you are never running alone, but there is plenty of space so it does not feel overcrowded. Would definitely recommend this race to everyone.