Japan hosts numerous exciting full marathon events nationwide, each with its own unique appeal, making it difficult to choose which one to participate in. This article introduces a ranking of the most popular full marathons in Japan, helping you find the perfect race to challenge yourself!
In this article, we will introduce six of the most popular full marathons in Japan. We will provide details on each race’s unique features, key points to consider when participating, event dates, entry periods, and the official registration websites.
Additionally, many foreign runners take part in Japanese marathon events, and numerous volunteers and staff members are available to assist in English and other languages. In particular, the Tokyo Marathon attracts a large number of international participants, and their numbers have been increasing year by year.
１．Tokyo Marathon
Event Date: Every March
Entry Period: Around June each year
The Tokyo Marathon is Japan’s largest urban marathon, planned and organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) since 2007.
In 2013, it joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors, becoming the opening race of the prestigious marathon series that includes the Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and New York City Marathon. This recognition has elevated the Tokyo Marathon to global prominence, making it one of the most highly regarded marathon events worldwide. The race is held on a Sunday in February or March each year, with extensive traffic restrictions implemented across Tokyo.
２．Osaka Marathon
Event Date: Every November
Entry Period: Around April each year
The Osaka Marathon is the largest urban marathon in the Kansai region, with a participant capacity of 35,000 runners, making it the second-largest marathon in Japan after the Tokyo Marathon. Due to its popularity, the lottery for entry has an exceptionally high competition rate, exceeding four times the number of available spots each year.
Since the 9th edition in 2019, the Osaka Marathon has adopted a new course. The revised route finishes at Osaka Castle Park and now includes iconic landmarks such as the Mint Bureau, Abeno Harukas, Shitennoji Temple, and Osaka Business Park, in addition to the traditional sites like the Osaka City Central Public Hall, Midosuji Boulevard, and Kyocera Dome Osaka. This new course is officially certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).
３．Sapporo Marathon
Event Date: Every October
Entry Period: Around June each year
The Sapporo Marathon is one of the largest citizen half-marathons in northern Japan, first held in 1976. Taking place every autumn, this signature sporting event of Sapporo attracts a total of 15,000 participants across various race categories. Both the half-marathon and 10km courses are officially certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF).
The starting and finishing point is Makomanai Park, a well-known autumn foliage spot in Sapporo. Runners can enjoy the sight of trees turning red and yellow as they race through the park. The turnaround point for the half-marathon is located at Odori Park in the city center, where enthusiastic spectators cheer on the runners along the route.
Additionally, shorter races of 5km, 3km, and 2km are held within Makomanai Park, with special categories for families and children. The “Fun Pair” event, where young children (elementary school age and under) can run hand-in-hand with an adult, is particularly popular. As an accessible and enjoyable event, many grandparents participate alongside their grandchildren.
4. Kyoto Marathon
Event Date: Every August
Entry Period: Around August each year
The Kyoto Marathon is held under the main concept of “DO YOU KYOTO? Marathon,” a slogan that translates to “Are you doing something good for the environment?” As Kyoto is an environmentally conscious city, the marathon is organized with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives.
This race offers a scenic and dynamic course that allows runners to experience the true essence of Kyoto. In 2024, approximately 16,000 runners from Japan and abroad participated. The course takes runners past seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Tenryu-ji Temple, Ninna-ji Temple, Ryoan-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kamigamo Shrine, and Shimogamo Shrine—while also providing a breathtaking run along the Kamo River.
５．Naha Marathon
Event Date: Every December
Entry Period: Around June each year
The NAHA Marathon is a JAAF-certified marathon held on the first Sunday of December every year. The event’s theme is “The Festival of Sun, Sea, and Joggers.” With a participant limit of 30,000 runners, it is a relatively large-scale marathon, attracting an increasing number of runners from outside Okinawa and overseas.
The 42.195 km course spans five cities and towns in southern Okinawa: Naha City, Tomigusuku City, Haebaru Town, Yaese Town, and Itoman City. The race starts at Oroku Athletic Park, passes through Peace Memorial Park at the halfway point, and finishes at Oroku Athletic Stadium in a loop course, without a turnaround point.
６．Kanazawa Marathon
Event Date: Every October
Entry Period: Around June each year
The Kanazawa Marathon offers runners the chance to fully experience the beauty of Kanazawa. This event attracts many participants from Japan and abroad, allowing them to enjoy the city’s rich natural landscapes, historical sites, food, and cultural heritage. With strong support from local citizens, businesses, and volunteers, the race fosters a lively atmosphere where participants and the local community can connect.
The course takes runners through Kanazawa’s most iconic sights, including Kenrokuen Garden, Ishikawa Gate of Kanazawa Castle, Higashi Chaya District, and the Teramachi Temple District. Runners will also pass through historically preserved areas featuring traditional townhouses, winding streets, and old castle roads, offering a uniquely immersive experience of Kanazawa’s historic charm.
Why Do Many Foreign Runners Participate in Marathons in Japan?
Marathon events in Japan are highly regarded internationally for their excellent organization, safety, and scenic course designs. These factors attract runners from all over the world. The most famous races draw participants from numerous countries, making them an opportunity for global cultural exchange.
Another major appeal of marathons in Japan is the deep interaction between runners and local communities. Residents actively support the events, cheering along the course and providing local specialties at aid stations. This culture of community-wide support creates a welcoming and unique marathon experience.
Aid Stations Offer a Variety of Unique and Exciting Foods
Aid stations provide runners with essential hydration and energy during the race, but have you ever wondered what kind of refreshments are available? The standard options include onigiri (rice balls), bananas, bread, salt, water, and sports drinks. However, one of the highlights of local marathon events is the opportunity to enjoy regional specialties at aid stations.
Examples of Unique Aid Station Offerings in Different Marathons:
- Hakodate Marathon: Seafood rice bowls
- Minami-Alps City: Cherries, plums, peaches, grapes, persimmons, and other fruits
- Tohoku-Miyagi Revitalization Marathon: Kamaboko (fish cake)
- Kanazawa Marathon: Katsu curry, Kintsuba (sweet bean jelly)
- Okayama Marathon: Sports kibidango (traditional millet dumplings), Shine Muscat grapes, Senryo eggplant pickles
- Kochi Ryoma Marathon: Katsuo-meshi (rice with bonito), Tosa Mahoroba tomatoes, sweet-and-sour cucumbers
Explore Japan’s Marathon Courses with Ease!
Japan offers a variety of stunning marathon courses, from scenic coastal routes to historic city streets. Whether you’re here for a race or just looking to enjoy a long run, having a convenient and reliable way to travel makes all the difference.
With ASAHI MOTORS Rent-a-Car, you can explore Japan’s best marathon destinations at your own pace. Our rental cars are perfect for runners who need flexibility—whether it’s getting to the starting line, traveling with teammates, or discovering hidden trails beyond the race.
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