Shizuoka Marathon

Location: Shizuoka
Country: Japan
Website: https://www.shizuoka-marathon.com/2025/en
2025 Marathon Date: 09/03/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 08/03/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:17:40
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 3k–10k

The Shizuoka Marathon is a springtime road race held in Shizuoka, a coastal city in central Japan best known for its proximity to Mount Fuji and green tea plantations. This fast, urban event has earned a solid reputation among competitive runners for its flat terrain, reliable organisation, and strong pacing opportunities.

The course follows a point-to-point route that begins in the city centre and finishes along the coast near Sunpu Castle Park. Runners travel through a mix of commercial streets, residential zones, and flat river paths, with Mount Fuji sometimes visible in the distance on clear mornings. The route is well-marshalled and clearly marked, with minimal elevation change and no sharp climbs, supporting consistent pacing throughout.

Early March conditions in Shizuoka are typically ideal for marathon running. Morning temperatures usually range between 6–12°C, with low humidity and light winds. Skies are often clear, and the crisp air quality enhances the racing experience for both locals and international entrants. Despite being a city marathon, crowd support is relatively modest, creating a focused atmosphere that many sub-3 runners prefer.

Organisation is thorough, with frequent aid stations, strong volunteer support, and smooth logistics before and after the race. The finish area is well-managed, and the post-race environment reflects the thoughtful efficiency often associated with Japanese events.

For sub-3 aspirants, the Shizuoka Marathon is a practical choice. Its combination of flat terrain, cool weather, and a sizable but not overwhelming field makes it a strong option for runners chasing fast times. There are plenty of other sub-3 runners to work with in the field, but the roads are wide enough to avoid congestion.

While it lacks the scale of Tokyo or Osaka, the Shizuoka Marathon delivers a clean, purposeful race-day experience. It’s a strong contender for runners looking to combine precision-focused racing with a calm, organised backdrop in one of Japan’s most accessible regional cities.