Photo David Emrich / Unsplash
- Marathon
Kyoto
Kyoto Marathon
Rolling from Nishikyogoku Athletic Park past Kinkaku-ji to near Heian Shrine.
Follow for alerts on every edition: dates, ballots, entries.
2027 edition
Next up
Countdown
111
days to 21 Feb 2027
- Distance
- Marathon
- Course
- Rolling
- Climb
- 180 m
- Entry
- —
About
The race
The Kyoto Marathon takes runners on a scenic journey through the historic city of Kyoto, Japan, known for its stunning temples, gardens, and traditional architecture. Participants will pass by iconic landmarks such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, making this race a unique blend of culture and athleticism.The Kyoto Marathon is a point-to-point course starting at Nishikyogoku Athletic Park and finishing near Heian Shrine, combining wide city streets with scenic sections. The route passes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, follows the Katsura and Kamo rivers, and runs through areas like Arashiyama, Sagano, and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Before you go
Pro tips
Racing it
- 01
Rolling 180
The course is rolling with 180 m of total climb. Run by effort, not pace: ease on the rises and let the descents restore rhythm.
From the elevation profile
- 02
Point-to-Point
The route is point-to-point from Nishikyogoku Athletic Park to near Heian Shrine. Plan your trip to the start and a finish-line meeting spot before race morning.
From the layout
- 03
Cold Race Day
Typical race-day temperature is 4°C. Dress for a cold start and have warm, dry layers waiting near the Heian Shrine finish.
From the temperature
- 04
Landmark Route
You pass Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, the Katsura and Kamo rivers, Arashiyama, Sagano and Kyoto Gyoen. Use wide city streets to lock into pace before scenic sections.
From the description
- 05
Heritage Distractions
UNESCO World Heritage sites line much of the route, so expect visual distractions. Keep your own rhythm rather than getting caught up in the scenery.
From the description
In Kyoto
Race-Day Transit
Kyoto's subway and rail lines are the reliable way around on race day; road closures and crowds make buses and taxis slow near the course.
Spectator Spots
Spectators can catch runners at major landmarks and river crossings, but moving between them takes planning; pick one area and stay put.
Recover in Kyoto
After the race, walk gently through Kyoto Gyoen or along the Kamo River to loosen up, then refuel with local comfort food.
Written by AI from the course data and the race's description; city tips are general knowledge. Check race-day details with the organizer.
Every year