Photo Tantan Wiguna / Unsplash
- Half
Marugame
Marugame Half Marathon
Flat and fast from Marugame Stadium, past rice fields to the Seto Inland Sea.
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2027 edition
Next up
Countdown
97
days to 7 Feb 2027
- Distance
- Half Marathon
- Course
- Flat
- Climb
- 15 m
- Entry
- —
About
The race
The Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon is a highly prestigious World Athletics Silver Label road race held in the Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island. Recognized as one of the fastest half marathons in Japan, it draws a highly competitive field of elite international athletes along with thousands of enthusiastic recreational runners. The incredibly flat and fast course takes participants from the Marugame Stadium past scenic rice fields and charming small villages while offering beautiful glimpses of the Seto Inland Sea. With meticulously organized logistics and exceptional crowd support, the event provides an ideal setting for securing personal best times and experiencing traditional Japanese racing culture.
Before you go
Pro tips
Racing it
- 01
Flat Course
With only 15 m of total climb, the half marathon is pancake-flat. Aim for even splits and trust that no hill will disrupt your rhythm.
From the elevation profile
- 02
Cold Race Day
Typical race-day temperature is 4.8°C, so dress for cold and wear layers you can discard. The flat course means you won't warm up on climbs, so keep extremities covered.
From the temperature
- 03
Scenic Segments
The route passes rice fields, small villages, and glimpses of the Seto Inland Sea. Use these landmarks to mentally break the race into chunks.
From the description
- 04
Crowd Energy
The description promises exceptional crowd support and meticulous logistics. Lean into the cheers, especially through the village sections, to stay motivated.
From the description
- 05
Competitive Field
This World Athletics Silver Label race draws elite international athletes. Start conservatively to avoid getting pulled into a pace you can't sustain.
From the description
In Marugame
Race Day Transit
Marugame's compact center is easy to navigate on foot. The train station connects to Takamatsu and Kotohira, so consider rail for race morning.
Spectator Vantage
Marugame Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city. Its park offers a vantage point for spectators, and the surrounding streets are lively on race day.
Post-Race Recovery
Ease tired legs at a local onsen or take a gentle stroll along the Seto Inland Sea. The city's uchiwa fan tradition makes for a light recovery-day wander.
Written by AI from the course data and the race's description; city tips are general knowledge. Check race-day details with the organizer.
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