A Message from Singapore NEW
Each year, Echigo Country Trail welcomes a small number of runners from overseas. Oguni, Nagaoka City is not a well-known tourist destination, which makes it all the more special when runners from abroad choose to visit and take part in our race.
Recently, we received a message from a runner who will be joining the 2026 event with their family from Singapore. They had contacted us in the past, but this year they are already registered. When we asked if we could introduce their story on our website, they kindly agreed.
Below is their message.
What made you decide to participate in the Echigo Country Trail?
My family and I share a deep love for Japan, visiting at least once a year during our school holidays in June and December and often driving to areas outside the major cities. My brother and I have long dreamed of participating in races there, drawn by the incredible atmosphere that surrounds race days in Japan. Unfortunately, as both of us are teachers, our participation is limited to races held during Singapore school holidays.
In 2019, we were fortunate to take part in the Osaka Marathon, and our family also joined the 3 km Happy Morning Run the day before. We had so much fun.
When we checked the calendar and realised that the Echigo Country Trail coincides perfectly with our holidays, we couldn’t be happier. With that, our plans were set — and we’re ready for the run!
What attracted you to this event in particular?
I love trail running and have always dreamt of running the trails in Japan. After hiking the sacred paths of Koya-san and the historic Nakasendo Trail, I am completely captivated by Japan’s trails.
Learning that the Echigo Country Trail takes place in the Niigata–Nagaoka region, weaving through rice fields, mountains, and forests, fills me with excitement for a truly different and unforgettable trail running experience.
What are you most looking forward to about running in Echigo, Japan?
After watching past Echigo Country Trail events on YouTube, I was struck by how deeply the local community is involved.
Seeing runners stop at aid stations and enjoy local food felt wonderfully authentic.I am truly looking forward to immersing myself in an atmosphere shaped and supported by a genuine Japanese community.
At Echigo Country Trail, runners, volunteers, and local residents come together as one community.
We are grateful for messages like this, which remind us of the value of our race and the connections it creates.
We look forward to welcoming runners from around the world to Oguni again this year.
