FEATURE: Japan's ultramarathons gain popularity as runners seek more than speed

OSAKA - Runners crossed the finish line with arms outstretched after running for half a day through forests, rivers and historic sites, their bodies drenched in sweat but their faces beaming with satisfaction.

Many had set off before dawn at 4:30 a.m. for the inaugural Nara Ultramarathon in May. For them, the reward was not a fast-finishing time but the chance to spend hours taking in the scenery, sampling local food and chatting with volunteers along the course.