Volunteers from Nagoya, Nagoya East, and Kanazawa Stakes Support Nanao Castle Samurai 10K Run with 300 Runners Participating

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[日本語リンク]

Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture — June 6, 2026

Members of the Kanazawa, Nagoya East, and Nagoya Stakes of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints participated as volunteers to support the “Noto Recovery - 2nd Nanao Castle Samurai Run,” held at the historic Nanao Castle Ruins in Nanao City. The event, which attracted more than 300 runners from across Japan, was supported by over 100 volunteers.

This marked the first running of the event in three years. The inaugural race was held in 2023.   The 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake led to its temporary suspension.  This very challenging ten-kilometer race now symbolizes the amazing recovery and resilience of Nanao City and its people and the goodness and power of many others from all walks of life and locations in Japan.   This area remains the focus of sustained relief and recovery efforts, including ongoing volunteer service by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

A Continued Commitment to Service 

A total of 28 Church volunteers participated in this year’s event. These included 10 members from the Kanazawa Stake and local Nanao Branch, along with 18 members from the Nagoya and Nagoya East Stakes, coordinated through the community organization known as “Oraccha Nanao,” which has been active in disaster recovery efforts.

The event was organized by the Noto no Kuni Nanao Castle Project Executive Committee and co-sponsored by the Yatago District Community Development Council, located near the Nanao Branch meetinghouse. The invitation to serve came through relationships built over time through consistent volunteer engagement.

“Opportunities to serve where there is real need are truly special,” said Nagoya Japan East Stake President Hiroaki Sugimoto. “Since February 2024, we have been serving continuously here in Nanao, together with volunteers from across Japan. Through these shared efforts, strong bonds of friendship and trust have developed.”

Challenging Course, Dedicated Volunteers

The 10-kilometer race followed a demanding mountain course at Nanao Castle, with a 5-kilometer ascent and return. Though only 2 kilometers in straight-line distance, the route climbs 260 meters with an average gradient of 13%, making it a steep and physically demanding challenge—even for experienced runners.

Volunteers were assigned throughout the course in critical roles, including parking management, first aid and hydration support, course guidance, and runner direction. Many volunteers navigated the same steep slopes and stone steps as participants to reach their positions.

At 9:00 a.m., the race began with enthusiasm. Within 20 minutes, word arrived that the lead runner had already reached the turnaround point, prompting cheers from those gathered at the starting area. Approximately 40 minutes after the start, the first runner crossed the finish line.

The final finishers—a man in his 80s and his two granddaughters—completed the course together roughly two hours after the start, bringing the race to a close.

Inspiring Effort and Scenic Beauty

From the honmaru (main enclosure) ruins of Nanao Castle, participants and volunteers enjoyed sweeping views of Nanao Bay, Noto Island, and the Noto Peninsula. The historic mountain fortress, ruled by the Hatakeyama clan for approximately 150 years between the 15th and 16th centuries, stands at an elevation of about 300 meters and is sometimes referred to as “Tenkyū,” or “Heavenly Palace.”

Reflecting on the course, President Sugimoto noted:

“When runners saw the steep climb alongside the castle walls near the finish, they must have felt a sense of despair. But after reaching the top, they were surely rewarded by the breathtaking views of the Noto Peninsula.”

Voices of the Volunteers

Many volunteers expressed that their experience went beyond simple service.

“It was enjoyable,” said one participant. “The best part was connecting with people from Noto and with other volunteer groups,” shared another. “It made me realize there may be even more I can do.”

For some, the experience was new.  “This was my first time participating in ‘event volunteering,’ which is very different from the hands-on disaster work I’ve done before. I wondered if I could really contribute.”  Others were inspired by the runners themselves:
“Seeing people give their all—it has been a long time since I witnessed such determination. It was truly moving.”

Volunteer Saori Nishida, who suffered significant damage to her home in the earthquake, reflected:  “I wouldn’t have participated in something like this if not for volunteering. Even though I didn’t know what I could do at first, I was able to help in small ways—setting up the venue, assisting at booths, and supporting runners. What stood out most was the shared joy and meaningful time people experienced together. Even for me, someone who wasn’t interested in marathons, it was deeply uplifting.”

Similarly, volunteer Toshiko Hirata said:  “Whether running or cheering, everyone was smiling. It was enjoyable just to watch. I felt fulfilled knowing I could help ensure the event was safe and pleasant for everyone. It truly felt like putting good into action.”

Community Engagement and Shared Celebration

In addition to course duties, some volunteers assisted at the concurrently held “Ōnigiwai Market,” where local vendors offered food and goods. Volunteers were given vouchers to enjoy the event, purchasing items such as yakisoba, churros, fried pufferfish, beverages, and local specialties.

Awards were presented to the top three male and female finishers, as well as to participants who competed in costume. Prizes included locally produced rice, highlighting the region’s culture and recovery efforts.

Looking Ahead: From Relief to Recovery

President Sugimoto emphasized that Nanao is now transitioning from emergency disaster response to long-term recovery:

“Since April 2026, efforts here have gradually shifted toward rebuilding and recovery. It was especially meaningful to reunite with fellow volunteers from other organizations. Being greeted with ‘We expected to see you here’ or ‘Let’s do our best again today’ reflects the strong sense of unity that has developed.”

Many participants expressed a desire to return next year for the third running of the event.

A Broader Call to Service

Volunteer service thrives when it responds directly to community needs. The year 2026 has been designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, highlighting the vital role of volunteerism worldwide.

In Japan, volunteer efforts continue across many regions. Building lasting relationships within communities and maintaining open lines of communication are essential to responding effectively.

The partnership between the people of Nanao and the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to grow stronger. Gratitude is extended to all volunteers and supporters across the country who contribute their time, energy, and compassion in service to others.