Overview
The Changsha Marathon draws approximately 12k finishers each October through Hunan province's spicy-food capital on the Xiang River. The course passes Orange Isle (Júzi Zhōu), the Yuelu Mountain foothills, and the IFS skyscraper district on a flat loop through central China. October's mild Hunan autumn and Xiang River views make it a popular central-China race.
Changsha Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Changsha Marathon 2026 race day
The next Changsha Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 25 October 2026 with a 7:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
Changsha Marathon course route
The Changsha Marathon is a riverside urban road that starts and finishes at the Orange Isle or Wuyi Square area. The loop follows the Xiang River, passes Orange Isle park, and crosses the IFS and Huangxing Road commercial district. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.
Changsha Marathon elevation profile
The Changsha Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Changsha Marathon is held in October, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.marathonchangsha.com/.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Changsha Marathon elevation profile?
- The Changsha Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is very flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
- How long is the Changsha Marathon?
- The Changsha Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Riverside urban road starting and finishing at the Orange Isle or Wuyi Square area.
- What time does the Changsha Marathon start?
- The 2026 Changsha Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 25 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.marathonchangsha.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Does the Changsha Marathon pass Orange Isle?
- Yes. Orange Isle (Júzi Zhōu) in the Xiang River is a centrepiece landmark of the course, famous for its statue of a young Mao Zedong and riverside parklands.
- When is the Changsha Marathon?
- The Changsha Marathon is held in October, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is at https://www.marathonchangsha.com/.
- Is the Changsha Marathon flat?
- Yes. The Xiang River plain course is flat, though Yuelu Mountain looms nearby without being climbed on the marathon route.
- What is Changsha known for?
- Changsha is Hunan's capital, famous for spicy cuisine, the IFS skyscraper with its rooftop statues, and Orange Isle's revolutionary history.
- What weather should I expect in Changsha in October?
- October in Changsha is mild autumn weather, often 16–24 °C (61–75 °F). Humidity decreases from summer levels, making it comfortable for racing.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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