Kyoto Marathon

Location: Kyoto, Kansai
Country: Japan
Website: https://kyoto-marathon.com/en/
2025 Marathon Date: 16/02/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 15/02/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:38:12
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 10k–20k

The Kyoto Marathon is held each February in the historic city of Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and one of the country's most picturesque destinations. This race offers participants a unique blend of cultural immersion and athletic challenge, as the route winds through some of Kyoto’s most scenic and iconic districts.

Starting near Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium and finishing at Heian Shrine, the course takes runners past a series of temples, shrines, riversides and traditional neighbourhoods, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. While there are some undulating sections, including gradual climbs and descents, the race remains runnable throughout and has long straight stretches that allow for sustained effort.

Weather conditions in Kyoto in late winter are generally cool and dry, with typical race-day temperatures ranging from 5–10°C. The crisp air and stable climate make for favourable marathon conditions, particularly for those aiming to run strong and consistent splits.

The Kyoto Marathon is known for its atmosphere and civic pride. Volunteers line the route in large numbers, and the local community turns out in support, creating a welcoming and encouraging race-day environment. Though crowd density fluctuates, the overall experience is one of quiet energy and understated motivation, true to the city’s character.

Logistics are handled with precision, reflecting Japan’s reputation for organisation. Aid stations, signage and runner support are all reliable and well-executed. While the event draws a substantial field, start pens are orderly, and the roads are wide enough to accommodate clean pacing from early on.

For sub-3 aspirants, the Kyoto Marathon offers a distinctive experience: a solid course in a cool climate, combined with cultural resonance and a high-quality race infrastructure. It is especially appealing to runners looking to combine a serious performance target with a memorable setting in one of Japan’s most beautiful cities.