Our Omine Okugake Trail_2021

I was invited by some friends (all 100-milers except for me) who were planning to participate in this year's UTMF to go on my first fastpacking trip. The plan was to run the Omine-Okugake Trail, the most difficult route in the Kansai region, in three days and two nights. We met at Yoshino Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line to catch the last train. Time to go!

After driving through the night, the sun rises. This is the "golden time" for headlamp manufacturers, when the headlamp light and the subject or product are both visible.

The sky is blue and wide, and a sea of clouds spreads out.

The view was so magnificent that I took a photo as a souvenir.

Since it is Shugendo, there were several points where you could peer down at the cliffs. "Will you listen to your mother?" "Will you take good care of your wife?" Have you ever heard that before?

And they all go ahead anyway.

I just kept going, looking at the beautiful mountains.

We finally reached Mt. Misen. The climb up here was really steep and tough.

And then, Yatsugatake.

The sun sets and it's golden time again. Even if I'm tired, my body starts moving automatically at this time, looking for the perfect photo opportunity.

I was really exhausted and sleepy, but I arrived at Shakagatake, the last checkpoint of the first day.

First day: 52.7km Total time: Approximately 22 hours We had the hut to ourselves, so we were able to spend the day comfortably.

The second day started. Because of the high altitude, there was still fog from the night before.

From here onwards is the Minami-Okugake Trail.

The style is to walk uphill and run downhill and on flat trails.

I continue on, admiring the beautiful scenery.

The member running in front was shouting loudly. Had he fallen or been hit by a bear? I was worried, but one of my regular runners was waiting for me with a Coke and some steamed buns. It was a really pleasant surprise. All my fatigue disappeared in an instant.

Finally, we arrived at the checkpoint for the second day, Tamaki Shrine, and had dinner. This moment felt truly happy. It was like a reward, so to speak. Each of us brought our favorite food and drink. As many of you may know, fastpacking involves carrying food, clothing, and shelter, so eating makes our loads lighter each day. It makes it a little easier to move the next day.

Then, we got ready for bed for the final day. After studying the features of each manufacturer of tents, tarps, and other living accommodations, we all went to sleep.

Day 2: 34.34km Activity time: about 13 hours I was tired, but I felt like I was getting closer to the finish line. It was time for the final sprint.

Finally, the final day arrived. We woke up at 5:00 AM, had breakfast, and left at 6:30 AM.

The ups and downs continue.

Finally, we came into sight of the torii gate of Kumano Jingu Taisha Shrine, our goal! (Photo center bottom)

The joy I felt when I saw the finish line was incredible. I had finally made it!

Adventurous rock crossing before the final river crossing

I arrived at the river around 10:30 a.m. I arrived a little early and the weather was perfect, so I started swimming by myself.

The second person enters,

Three or four people soothe their tired bodies.

Then, I cross barefoot to the other side.

Just a little bit more to the finish line!

At Oisaihara, the former site of Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine

The sense of accomplishment was incredible. I was so happy to reach the goal with such great teammates.

The new socks held up well over the long distance of about 100km and a cumulative elevation gain of 8000m.

I also wanted to try various new challenges and fun things with this group. Fastpacking is so much fun. If you've never tried it, I highly recommend you give it a try. By the way, I've put together a video of this experience. Please take a look if you'd like.