Japan’s toughest survival race

In Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, participants are competing in a unique survival race that combines both mountain biking and trail running.

Local authorities in Ibaraki Prefecture organized a two-day event called Okukuji “X” as part of their efforts to promote this mountainous region in the north of the prefecture. The 125-kilometer route that leads close to the famed Fukuroda Falls includes steep uphill slopes with inclines of more than 13 percent. The winner will be decided by combining the records of the two portions.