From the people you will meet, to all that you will see, taste and do – there’ such to look forward to in Kyotango this fall.
Let’s start with its famed ultra. Its official full name is almost as long as the distances offered. The International Friendship Race in Historical Road Tango 100 km Ultramarathon 2016 will feature 100 km and 60 km distances.
Slanted for Sunday, 18 September 2016, the 16th edition will be held in the beautiful Kyotango city in the north of Kyoto, Japan. Set along northern mountain paths, the silver IAU-certified ultra-marathon welcomes runners from around the world to its rich and diverse natural landscape.
The Tango 100 km Ultramarathon 2015 saw 4,000 runners – 2,600 in the 100 km and 1,400 in the 60 km categories. Of which, over 10 countries were represented, including Taiwan and Malaysia.
Flagging off bright and early at 4:30 a.m., the 100 km ultra will start and finish at Amity Tango, a European-inspired farming village resort park. Meanwhile, the 60 km race will begin at 9:00 a.m. from Kumihama Seaside Park and also end at Amity Tango.
Aside from panoramic coastal views of the East Sea/Sea of Japan, ultra-runners will also be rewarded with an interesting medley of pick-me-ups. Fancy pickled plum? Or how about a dip in an onsen (hot spring bath)? Yes, you get to taste and do that in this ultra race!
The overall top six finishers will be awarded prizes but everyone will leave feeling like a winner as spectators eagerly cheer them on to the finish line. With such infectious camaraderie, it truly is, as its name says, an international friendship race.
While here, enjoy the fruits of Kyotango’s flourishing autumn season. Pick nashi (Japanese pears), dig into freshly harvested sweet potatoes, or go fishing in the Taiza area.
Off the Tango ultra course, make it a point to visit Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. Enjoy black chikuwa (Japanese fish cake sticks) and “rice cakes of wisdom” as you take in the scenic views that people have travelled to see since ancient of days.
Registration Open Now
From now till 25 July 2016, register for JPY 18,000 for the 100 km, or JPY 13,000 for the 60 km ultra. Men and women aged 18 and above on race day can participate.
Ultra runners will receive an original event t-shirt and finisher medals.
For more information and to register online, please visit the official Tango Ultramarathon English website
Know anyone who’d be game enough to take on this ultra? Or would you? Share this on their Facebook wall or give a shout-out in the comments below!
