Marathon Focus
Guangzhou Marathon

Guangzhou Marathon

Guangzhou, Guangdong, China

Overview

The Guangzhou Marathon attracts approximately 20k finishers each December through the Pearl River Delta's largest city. The course passes the Canton Tower, Zhujiang New Town CBD, and the Pearl River (Zhujiang) waterfront on wide subtropical boulevards. December's mild Guangdong winter and flat terrain make it a popular year-end race in south China.

Guangzhou Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Guangzhou Marathon 2026 race day

The next Guangzhou Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 December 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.

Guangzhou Marathon course route

The Guangzhou Marathon is an urban road that starts in the Tianhe or Zhujiang New Town area and finishes at the Canton Tower festival zone. The loop follows the Pearl River embankment, passes Haixinsha Island and the Canton Tower, and crosses the CBD. 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.

Guangzhou Marathon elevation profile

The Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou Marathon is held on the first Sunday of December. Registration opens through the official website and requires advance lottery entry.

Guangzhou Marathon course videos

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

【Let's Guangzhou】The Spirit of Guangzhou Marathon

2019 Rock 'n' Roll Guangzhou Huadu Half Marathon Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Guangzhou Marathon elevation profile?
The Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou Marathon?
The Guangzhou Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. From the Tianhe or Zhujiang New Town area to the Canton Tower festival zone.
What time does the Guangzhou Marathon start?
The 2026 Guangzhou Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 6 December 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on en.guangzhou-marathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Guangzhou Marathon finish?
The finish is typically near the Canton Tower on the Pearl River waterfront — one of Guangzhou's most recognisable landmarks. Start locations vary; check http://en.guangzhou-marathon.com/ for current maps.
When is the Guangzhou Marathon?
The Guangzhou Marathon is held on the first Sunday of December. Registration opens through the official website and requires advance lottery entry.
Is the Guangzhou Marathon flat?
Yes. Guangzhou sits on the flat Pearl River Delta, and the marathon course has minimal elevation change. Warm December weather is the main environmental factor.
What landmarks are on the Guangzhou course?
The Canton Tower, Pearl River waterfront, Zhujiang New Town CBD, and Haixinsha Island are highlights of the route through China's southern commercial capital.
What is Guangzhou weather like in December?
December in Guangzhou is mild winter weather, often 15–22 °C (59–72 °F). Humidity remains noticeable, and conditions are comfortable for marathon running.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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