2026 Trial

The June Trial

One month. Six to eight people. Testing what community around trails actually looks like.

We'll be staying together in Fujimi, with daily access to the Yatsugatake range. Group runs organized based on conditions and what people want to do. Route knowledge shared. Time in the mountains, together.

This is a pilot. We're learning what works, what doesn't, and what it takes to create something people want to return to. If you join, you're helping shape what this becomes.

Dates: June 12 – July 12, 2026

Location: Fujimi, Nagano (2 hours from Tokyo)

Group size: 6–8 people

What to Expect

Included

  • Shared accommodation in Fujimi
  • Daily access to Yatsugatake trails
  • Group trail runs (routes adjusted for conditions and experience)
  • Route planning and local knowledge
  • Community meals
  • Support for individual training goals

Good to Know

This is not a guided tour or structured program. You're responsible for your own schedule and training. We'll organize group runs and share knowledge, but you need to be comfortable with self-directed exploration.

Transport to/from Fujimi and personal gear are your responsibility.

Mountain landscape
Trail in the mountains
Mountain scene
Community moment

Yatsugatake & the Southern Alps

The villa sits in the Yatsugatake region of Nagano Prefecture, between two major mountain ranges. Two hours from Tokyo by train, with trail access in every direction.

To the east, the Yatsugatake range offers technical ridge lines, volcanic terrain, and long forest runs. Mt. Yatsugatake (2,899m), Mt. Akadake (2,899m), and dozens of connected peaks. To the west, the Southern Alps rise higher — Mt. Kita (3,193m), Mt. Aino (3,189m), and some of Japan's most remote alpine terrain.

This puts us between two of the best trail running areas in the country. The trial is designed to make the most of both.

Who Should Join

Experience level doesn't matter. We're welcoming to people training for their first trail race and experienced mountain runners alike. What matters is genuine interest in spending time outdoors and contributing to community.

This is for you if

  • You want consistent trail access and mountain time
  • You're interested in trail running or mountain exploration in Japan
  • You're comfortable with self-directed activity and group living
  • You want to be part of building something from the ground up

You should be

  • Available for the full month (June 12 – July 12)
  • Comfortable with shared living spaces
  • Self-sufficient (able to organize your own schedule and training)
  • Open to group activities and knowledge sharing

This is a trial, not a polished product. Expect things to be rough around the edges.

Practical Information

Accommodation

Shared house in Fujimi. Private bedrooms, shared kitchen and common spaces. Walking distance to trails and town center.

Getting There

Fujimi is 2 hours from Tokyo by train (Chuo Line). We can provide detailed directions once you're confirmed.

What to Bring

Trail running gear, personal clothing, any specific training equipment you need. Full packing list provided after registration.

Meals

Community meals organized several times per week. Shared kitchen available for self-catering. Fujimi has grocery stores and restaurants.

Cost

Pricing to be confirmed. Contact us for details.

Language

Activities and communication will be in English and Japanese. All experience levels welcome.

The Space

We'll be staying in a villa in Yatsugatake, twenty minutes from Kobuchizawa Station. The house sits on two acres of garden, with six bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large shared living area.

650 square meters gives us room to spread out. Enough space for individual routines and shared time. The surrounding area is quiet, forested, and close to trailheads.

You'll need a car to get around. We recommend renting one in advance if you don't have access to a vehicle. Kobuchizawa Station is the nearest hub for trains back to Tokyo.

Accommodation
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Join the Trial

We’re looking for six to eight people to join us this June. If you’re interested in being part of the trial or want to follow along as we build this, let us know.

Or reach out directly: hello@goodpace.jp

After You Sign Up

We'll send you

  • More details about the trial structure and schedule
  • Pricing and payment information
  • A short questionnaire about your experience and goals
  • Packing list and preparation guide

Timeline

April: Applications open, initial outreach

Early May: Confirm participants

Late May: Final logistics and preparation

June 12: Trial begins

This is a collaborative process. We'll be in touch with everyone who expresses interest to answer questions and make sure it's the right fit.

Common Questions

Do I need trail running experience?

No. We're welcoming to all experience levels. What matters is genuine interest in spending time in the mountains.

Is this a structured training program?

No. We'll organize group runs and share route knowledge, but you're responsible for your own training schedule.

Can I work remotely during the trial?

Yes. The accommodation has wifi and workspace. Many participants will likely be remote workers.

What if I can't commit to the full month?

The trial is designed as a month-long experience. We're prioritizing people who can commit to the full period.

What about insurance and safety?

All participants must have their own travel/health insurance. We'll provide safety protocols and guidelines for mountain activities.

Is this only for international residents?

No. We welcome both Japanese and international participants. The goal is a culturally diverse community.